First published in the Watford FC matchday programme
Joey Mills takes a look at four players who have bridged the divide between the Glory ‘Orns and todays opponents, Chelsea.
Steve Sherwood
Before becoming Graham Taylor’s mainstay number 1 during 11 successful years at the Vic, the Selby-born stopper began his career at Chelsea. He made 16 league appearances for the North Londoners before joining the Yellow Army, and his formative years at Stamford Bridge were the perfect grounding for a decorated career at the club. In 1984 he would keep goal in the FA Cup final, as Watford were defeated 2-0 after a proud display. After departing, Sherwood would make 183 league appearances for Grimsby Town, before travelling through a number of lower league sides and retiring aged 45.
Nathan Ake
A current star with a foot in both camps, the exciting full back is currently with us on loan from the Champions. Chelsea have shown tremendous faith in the Netherlands Under-21 international, inking a five year deal with Ake before his move to the Hornets. Chelsea’s coaching staff must be pleased with his development so far as his classy displays in both defence and midfield have been integral to our good form this campaign. His time at Watford will live long in the memory of fans, particularly his first senior goal in our famous 3-0 victory over Liverpool last December. Comparisons with legendary countryman and fellow Blue Ruud Guulit may be a tad premature, but the future looks bright for this emerging starlet.
Jon Harley
A star student of the Chelsea youth system, Harley would find his first team opportunities limited upon graduation. There was no shame in being stuck behind classy operators such as Graeme Le Saux and Celestine Babayaro in competition for the left-back berth, and Harley would go on to find success at Fulham, Sheffield United and Burnley. He arrived at Watford an experienced campaigner, and his consistency and tireless attacking raids saw him miss only one league game over his two seasons at the Vic. Harley has since returned to Chelsea to work as a youth team coach.
Nathaniel Chalobah
It is difficult to believe that this cultured midfielder is still only 21 years old. It was 2013 when the fresh-faced Sierra Leone-born star propelled Watford to the play-off final with mature displays that belied his tender years. While he is yet make the breakthrough into Chelsea’s first team, his performances with the likes of Reading, Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough have led to Chalobah earning 24 caps for England under-21s. Currently on-loan at Napoli, Serie A has proved a difficult adjustment for the player, with only two league appearances coming so far this season. However with the class that Watford fans know Chalobah has, it won’t be long before his wider impact on the game is made.