Birmingham City manager Chris Davies is preparing for an emotionally charged Championship encounter against Watford on Monday night - the very club he supported throughout his childhood.
A Manager's Personal Connection
The upcoming fixture at St Andrew's holds particular significance for Davies, who revealed deep family ties to the opposition. His mother was born and raised in Watford, with generations of her family supporting the Hornets, while his father is Welsh.
Davies grew up in Watford and attended school there before leaving at 16 to pursue football. "I've been on the move since I was 16," Davies explained. "I left school and moved away to play football and haven't actually lived there since which is nearly 25 years."
Adding to the personal connection, his wife also hails from Watford, and the couple attended school together in the town.
Professional Detachment from Childhood Allegiances
Despite his lifelong connection to Watford, Davies maintains the professional detachment required of modern football managers. "I supported Watford but when you're up against them or in a professional setting it's like they're a different team," he stated.
Davies has faced Watford numerous times throughout his coaching career, including during his time in academy football. He emphasised his current allegiance lies firmly with Birmingham City: "I'm a Birmingham City fan because no one wants us to win more than me."
Analysis of the Opposition
The Blues manager expects a tough challenge against Watford, who have recently reappointed Javi Gracia as manager with ambitions of returning to the Premier League.
Davies identified several key Watford players who could threaten his Birmingham side, specifically mentioning midfielder Imran Louza and their pacey wingers. "Looking at their squad and looking at them play, I would expect them to be in the mix, definitely," Davies analysed. "They normally are in and around it and I think they will be again."
The match represents Birmingham City's 18th Championship fixture of the season and has been selected for television coverage by Sky Sports, adding another layer of significance to this personal and professional showdown for Davies.
