Hector Kyprianou has called on Watford supporters to create a decisive atmosphere for Saturday's Championship fixture against West Ham United. The midfielder believes a packed Vicarage Road will give the Golden Boys a key edge against the relegated Premier League side.
Kyprianou, 25, spoke ahead of the match, which is expected to draw the largest home crowd in six years. "The crowd will be so important," he said. "When we were defending the Rookery in the second half, you could hear the support behind us and it gives you that edge."
Watford go into the game with four points from their opening two league matches. West Ham, meanwhile, are seeking their first win of the new campaign after dropping down from the top flight.
The challenge ahead
Kyprianou acknowledged the quality in the opposition ranks, naming players like Jarrod Bowen. He insisted, however, that his team has nothing to fear. "This is the Championship and it's a matter of who wants it more, and we're going to make sure that's our mentality," the Watford number five stated. "We have proven there is nothing to fear. We have played against top sides already and in pre-season."
The player highlighted the impact of the home support, recalling the recent match against Southampton. "Against Southampton we had to switch sides at the start, so in the first half, when we scored in front of the Rookery, it was amazing," he explained.
With tickets selling fast, the club is anticipating a full house for the 3pm kick-off on Saturday, 29 August.
Kyprianou finished by speaking directly to the fans, asking them to maintain their vocal backing. "I know that I'm speaking for the rest of the lads when I say that it helps us massively, so please keep it up!"
