Watford manager Alessio Dionisi has directly challenged his other forwards to match the goal-scoring output of teenage winger Amin Nabizada. The 19-year-old is the club's top scorer with three goals this season, a tally that no other wide player in the squad has managed.
Nabizada's latest strike came in the 1-2 home defeat to Stoke City on Saturday, a result that leaves Watford 17th in the Championship with eight points from seven games. Dionisi expressed his happiness for the young forward but turned the focus onto the rest of his attacking options.
"I am happy for Amin but it's question for the rest of my players," Dionisi said.
While Mamadou Doumbia has also found the net more than once, the contributions from other wingers have been sparse. Othmane Maamma has made the most appearances among the wide options but is yet to score, though Dionisi noted his improved efforts in training and suggested he should rotate between starting and bench roles. Fellow attackers Rocco Vata and Stephy Mavididi are also still finding their feet at Vicarage Road.
Nabizada ready for the step up
For his part, Nabizada feels prepared for the demands of first-team football after his time around the senior setup. He acknowledged the increased intensity, with more running and stronger, quicker opponents, but is confident in his ability.
"I'm happy that the hard work is paying off," Nabizada said. The teenager, whose goals have all come at home, wants to stay consistent and add more goals and assists to help the team win games. He aims to be seen as a proper player who can hold his own at this level.
With Watford having scored just seven goals while conceding nine so far this campaign, improving the attack's productivity is a clear priority. The team's recent form shows one win, one draw, and three losses in their last five outings. They face a quick turnaround with an away trip to Bristol City, who are 13th, on Friday.
The Hornets will also be without several players for that match, including Branimir Mlačić, Edoardo Bove, and Jeremy Ngakia. Nabizada now has a chance to cement his starting place as Dionisi seeks more firepower from his squad.
Read the full report at Watford Observer
