Roy Hodgson says Watford supporters will play a role in relegation battle

New Watford manager has spoken out to the fans, urging them to get behind the team.

The 74-year-old will take charge of the club for the first time at Vicarage Road on Saturday, for the first time since taking charge when the Hornets host Brighton & Hove Albion.

The former England boss is yet to win a game since joining Watford, having picked up a draw and a defeat, but he believes the crowd could play an impact.

"The fans really do back their team here and are behind them. I think the supporters have a big role to play. When you find yourself near the bottom of the table they, like everyone at the club, will be anxious that we survive this year and that will be their major concern," Hodgson told the club website.

"I have a lot of faith in the intelligence of football fans and those who realise that the task won't be made easier if they don't get behind us and give us the right encouragement."

Watford head into the game 19th in the Premier League table, sitting three points behind Newcastle United who are just outside of the relegation zone.