Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Chronicle Live
Chronicle Live
Sport
George Bennett

Ex-Watford boss Roy Hodgson specifies Newcastle United target Joao Pedro's strongest role

Former Watford boss Roy Hodgson has specified Joao Pedro's strongest role amid serious interest from Newcastle United.

Watford have rejected an initial bid of £20million - much to the dismay of Pedro and his representatives. Newcastle have also been mystified by Watford's reluctance to accept considering the Hornets accepted a similar bid for Emmanuel Dennis to join Nottingham Forest last week.

Hodgson returned to management after an eight-month absence but collected just two wins from 18 games at Vicarage Road. Watford were relegated in what appears to be his final season in management, but despite his side's struggles, Hodgson was impressed by Pedro.

READ NEXT: Newcastle's reassuring 'never stop' transfer and loan summer plan in major move from Ashley era

"He's best centrally in a trident with two forwards prepared to make runs behind defenders," Hodgson explained to the Telegraph.

"Then he can drop and be a deep-lying target player. He's very skilful; he's got a very good technique; he's got good pace; and is able to run past people with the ball."

Watford boss Rob Edwards has deployed Pedro in a variety of roles during the opening four matches. Pedro has played as a solo striker, central attacking midfielder, left winger and has featured as part of a front-two.

The Brazilian, who arrived at Watford from Fluminense in 2020, has scored 14 times and contributed five assists in 77 games for the Hornets.

READ NEXT

Newcastle and Chelsea part-owners make £747m investment as boardroom links strengthened further

Newcastle want 'exceptional' new coach in fast who will be asked about certain transfer targets

Kieran Trippier breaks up fight and the four words Burn roared at Newcastle players in tunnel

Premier League boss reacts to Newcastle investing 'a lot of money' in player with 'high level'

Eddie Howe reveals truth about Newcastle dressing room's 'inner frustration'

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.