ABOVE: Watford goalkeeper Almunia reckons Watford’s young side froze on the day of the Championsip play-off
We didn’t play our football, we didn’t
display our quality and Crystal Palace did. They showed how strong they
are. It’s a massive frustration
Manuel Almunia
MANUEL ALMUNIA believes Watford were too inexperienced to get themselves into the Premier League.
Gianfranco Zola’s side were far from their best at Wembley on Sunday as they slipped to a 1-0 play-off defeat to Crystal Palace.
And goalkeeper Almunia reckons Watford’s young side froze on the day following an impressive season when they finished third in the table.
“We didn’t play our football, we didn’t display our quality and Crystal Palace did. They showed how strong they are. It’s a massive frustration,” he said.
“We have a young side and they have to get used to these kind of games. Mentally, you have to be prepared to be in front of 80,000 people.
“It’s not easy because it’s the first time for many players and Palace have very experienced players.”
Watford’s league success was built around a number of loan players and Almunia added: “We have to start again from zero.
“But we have to keep Gianfranco’s football philosophy, our style, because this season we proved this style is good for our squad.
“The final was a big experience for us and most of the young players will benefit from it.”
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