Watford’s relegation from the Premier League was confirmed last weekend after a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The Hornets have struggled all season and the loss ensured they will finish in the bottom three this campaign.
It means an immediate return to English second division for Watford who gained promotion to the Premier League after finishing second in the Championship last year.
But what does the future hold for Emmanuel Dennis, William Troost-Ekong, Samuel Kalu, Oghenekaro Etebo and Maduka Okoye? The four Nigerian internationals currently under contract at the club.
Emmanuel Dennis:
Dennis has been one of the few positives in a difficult season for Watford. The forward has been directly involved in 50 percent (10 goals, 6 assists) of the club’s 32 goals in the league so far this season.
Dennis has a clause in his contract that would see him agree to a pay cut if he stays with the club in the Championship. He is unlikely to remain beyond this summer though, as a number of clubs including West Ham and Villarreal are said to be interested in his services. It is understood that Watford values him at around £20 million to £30 million.
William Troost-Ekong
Ekong has made just one appearance for Watford since January 1, a twelve minute cameo in their 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace. The defender was linked with a move to MLS side La Galaxy last month but those links were denied by the club.
Ekong has three years left in his contract and could well remain at the club for the time being. However, a move away can not be entirely ruled out.
Samuel Kalu
Kalu has appeared just three times since his January transfer from Bordeaux. The 24-year-old has had to deal with injuries but has mostly been overlooked when fit. As things stand, he is expected to remain at the club for next season. He has a contract until 2025.
Oghenekaro Etebo
Etebo started in five of Watford’s first seven games of the season before being ruled out for the next five months with a torn quad. Watford certainly missed Etebo’s presence in midfield.
Etebo, who joined on a season-long loan from Championship side Stoke City, will return to his parent club at the end of this season as Watford do not want to exercise their option to buy him permanently.
Maduka Okoye
Okoye signed a five-and-a-half year contract with Watford in January and was loaned back to Sparta Rotterdam for the remainder of the 2021/22 campaign.
He will join his new club when the season ends, but first, he needs to help Sparta retain their top flight status in the Dutch league. Sparta need to avoid defeat at Heracles on Sunday to confirm safety. Okoye would be motivated to give one back before joining his new employers in England.
