Watford interim manager Tom Cleverley is pleased with Emmanuel Dennis’ impact after the Nigerian striker scored the only goal in the Hornets’ 1-0 win away at Birmingham City in the Championship on Saturday afternoon.
The Nottingham Forest loanee scored the only goal in the 44th minute after profiting off a defensive error from a Birmingham throw in and ended up chipping the ball over goalkeeper John Ruddy.
Cleverley, who was taking charge of Watford for the first time after the dismissal of Valerien Ismael, revealed that Dennis had a groin issue and was not able to complete the game. He was taken off for Ivorian Vakoun Issouf Bayo after 63 minutes.
“We know that Dennis has got that explosive burst so as a defender you can think you’re comfortable on the ball and then he appears from nowhere,” Cleverley told the club website.
“We spoke to the players, and we thought we would create chances from high regains today. We didn’t win as many balls as I would have liked, but one we did win mattered the most, so I’m pleased for Dennis.
“He’s had a small groin issue, so it was always in my mind that he wasn’t going to complete the game. He’s done well to get through the hour, score the winning goal, and hopefully he’s back for next week.”
Dennis took to X after the game, staying in a post: “Not a good performance but happy with the three points.”
Not a good performance but happy with the three points ???????? pic.twitter.com/k3Agmui7Qk
— DENNIS BLESSED (@dennisblessed42) March 16, 2024
Dennis has now scored three goals in 10 games since making his second return to Vicarage Road in January.
Watford sit in 13th place on the Championship table, nine points clear of the relegation zone with eight points left to wrap up the regular season.
