Watford relegation fears mount after Southampton defeat

London, June 29

Watford were dealt a major blow in their bid to avoid relegation as they suffered a 3-1 home defeat by Southampton after a Danny Ings double and James Ward-Prowse’s stunning late free kick for the visitors in their Premier League game on Sunday.

Saints started strongly and took a well-deserved lead in the 16th minute when Ings glided past the challenge of two Watford defenders before curling a low effort into the far corner.

Ralph Hasenhuettl’s side were unlucky not to grab a second in the 24th minute when Ward-Prowse skied his effort from close range after latching on to a cross-field pass from Oriol Romeu.

Watford, who had omitted Andre Gray, Nathaniel Chalobah and Domingos Quina from their squad after British media reported a lockdown breach, started the second half strongly but failed to test Saints keeper Alex McCarthy.

However, the hosts found themselves two goals down in the 70th minute when Ings intercepted a wayward throw out from goalkeeper Ben Foster before driving towards the penalty area and firing home his 18th league goal of the season.

The result took Saints up to 13th place with 40 points, while Watford remain in 16th with 28 points, one point ahead of third-bottom Bournemouth, who have a game in hand.

Bruce wants clarity from Premier League on proposed Newcastle takeover

Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce wants “clarity” from the Premier League on the proposed Saudi-backed takeover of the club as he says the delay in approving the deal is “not healthy for anybody”.

A group with an expected 80% investment from Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF have made a reported £300 million ($370.95 million) bid to buy United from British businessman Mike Ashley.

The club are awaiting the outcome of the league’s owners’ and directors’ test. The Premier League has not commented on its approval procedure.

“I think everybody needs a bit of clarity,” Bruce told British media following Sunday’s 2-0 FA Cup quarterfinal defeat by Manchester City.

“And if I am led to believe it’s the Premier League that are stalling all of the negotiations then they have to come and make a decision sooner or later. It is not healthy for anybody.

“… We have another game on Wednesday (at Bournemouth) and have a wonderful opportunity. We can’t use that (the takeover) as an excuse but we need a bit of clarity and get it put to bed one way or another.” — Reuters