Mavididi Responds to Watford Frustration
Mavididi struck shortly after half-time to settle a tight encounter, with his effort taking a deflection off Lincoln captain Sonny Bradley before beating George Wickens. The goal handed Watford all three points and provided a welcome response to their 3-2 defeat against Norwich City at the weekend.
The 28-year-old joined Watford on loan from Leicester City in September, but has not always found himself in Dionisi’s starting side. Changes to the team’s formation have also presented challenges for the winger, who has had to adapt to the demands of his new manager.
Following the victory, Dionisi admitted that Mavididi had been unhappy with his involvement, something the Italian believes is perfectly natural for any player wanting regular first-team football.
“Yeah, I spoke in the last weeks with the staff. It’s normal when one player doesn’t play, he’s not happy.
“Now I’m happy for him because Steph played well and it’s important to get the result. Steph scored and it’s important. It’s important for him and it’s important for the team.”
Asked directly whether Mavididi had approached him because he wanted more minutes, Dionisi confirmed that the pair had discussed his role within the team.
“Yes, Stephy, every player wants to play. Stephy asked me, I spoke with him about his position.
“For example, when we change the shape, it’s not easy for Stephy to find his position. But Stephy is a good player.
“I spoke with him because I want more from him. For us, Stephy is a top player.
“Now I am happy for him because when one player scores, the result is 1-0. It’s better for him. Now, probably, Stephy will be happy.”
Despite his decisive contribution against Lincoln, Dionisi made it clear that his conversations with the winger were not specifically about scoring more goals. Instead, the focus had been on where Mavididi fits into Watford’s system and what he needs to demonstrate to earn regular opportunities.
“No, no, no, no. I spoke about his future, and I spoke about his position in our shape.
“But it’s normal. When I speak with one player, it’s normal to say, to listen. I want to play more, I want to see more every day.”
Mavididi’s goal ultimately settled a contest in which Lincoln had threatened to take something back to Sincil Bank, leaving the visitors frustrated by a narrow defeat.
For Dionisi, however, the evening offered encouragement on two fronts. Watford returned to winning ways after their disappointment at Norwich, while a player who had been pushing for greater involvement demonstrated exactly why he wants to be part of the starting side.
