Blues wary of Hornets' sting

Watford v Chelsea
The FA Youth Cup sponsored by E.ON
Sixth Round Proper
7pm, Wednesday 17 February 2010
Vicarage Road, Watford FC

Chelsea's Academy manager Dermot Drummy is wary of Watford's attacking threat ahead of their FA Youth Cup Sixth Round clash on Wednesday.

Drummy watched Watford's Fifth Round game against Liverpool. A Piero Mingoia penalty was enough to seal the victory for the Hornets but it was their quick front line that caught the eye of Chelsea's Academy manager.

He said: "They countered Liverpool effectively, attacking with good pace. We need to watch against that when we play them.

"I was impressed with their organisation and tactics. They played well and they could have scored another three."

Drummy added: "It will be a tough game. They are a very good side and we will not treat this game lightly. They will certainly be a threat."

The Blues last won the competition in 1961 and despite beating Watford 3-1 earlier in the season, Drummy expects a closer game this time around: "Any side that gets this far in the competition are going to be good. It's the Sixth Round and we are certainly looking for a win."

Chelsea's Academy manager was also full of praise for his captain, Ireland Under-21 international Conor Clifford, who scored their winner in the previous round against Portsmouth: "He is an effective player for us who gives 100 per cent every game. His tackling and distribution is good and he breaks up the play well.

"Marko Mitrovic is also on good form up front for us, so he will be a danger."

The winner of Wednesday's game will face an away trip to either Blackburn Rovers or Everton for the Semi-Final in March.