Watford vs Rotherham United Prediction: The hornets won't settle for a draw

Watford will welcome Rotherham United at Vicarage Road in Game Week 16 of the English Championship. The Hornets are unbeaten in five games while their opponents are unbeaten in two games but are sitting in the relegation zone. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes?

Valerien Ismael, the head coach of Watford, has received a new contract, providing him with some level of stability in his position. However, this decision by the Hornets board indicates that they have high expectations for a playoff push, which has not yet materialized despite the team's recent improvements. Although Watford has accumulated nine points from their last five matches, including two wins and three draws, they still find themselves in 16th place in the table. The team's defence has improved, resulting in three clean sheets in their last four matches. However, their offence has struggled, with their last game scoring more than twice in a match being on September 2. Watford has only managed to secure three wins in eight home games, with victories against Queens Park Rangers, Birmingham City, and Sheffield Wednesday. 

Watford manager Ismael is considering making changes to his midfield and attack following their unsuccessful match against Huddersfield, who were dealing with several injuries. Ismael Kone, Matheus Martins, and Mileta Rajovic are all potential options for a recall. There is also a possibility of Ryan Andrews returning as the right-back, although Ryan Porteous may remain on the bench if the team manages to keep another clean sheet.

Watford's potential starting lineup could be Bachmann in goal, with Ngakia, Sierralta, Hoedt, and Lewis in defence. In the midfield, Kayembe, Livermore, and Kone may feature, while Asprilla, Bayo, and Martins could form the attacking trio.

Rotherham, who currently find themselves in the relegation zone along with QPR and Sheffield Wednesday, have shown signs of progress with only one loss in their last five games. They earned a draw against second-placed Ipswich Town and secured a point against Southampton. However, Rotherham's away record is the worst in the league, having lost six of their seven away games and scoring only three goals.

Daniel Ayala's performance in the Rotherham defence against Ipswich may warrant him a starting role, but Cafu might be dropped after playing in an unfamiliar position on the left. Sebastian Revan and Arvin Appiah are also viable alternatives. Sam Nombe's impressive performance in the last match may keep Georgie Kelly and Jordan Hugill as substitutes. 

Rotherham United's possible starting lineup might include Johansson in goal, Lembikisa, Ayala, Odoffin, and Bramall in defence. Tiehi and Clucas could pair up in the midfield, with Onyedinma, Rathbone, and Appiah playing in advanced positions. Nombe may also be included in the starting lineup.

Rotherham could take advantage of Watford's pursuit of maximum points in this game, potentially creating opportunities at the back. However, Watford's superior quality, particularly when playing at Vicarage Road, should make a difference, especially considering that draws are becoming less valuable. However, keep your expectations low in terms of goals being scored in the game.