Cleverley: Den Will Be "Some Occasion"

Watford Head Coach Tom Cleverley believes the Hornets’ Sky Bet Championship opener away at Millwall will be a fitting way to start the season.

Cleverley’s side were handed the opening weekend trip to The Den after the publication of the fixtures for the 2024/25 campaign this morning.

The Golden Boys are scheduled to travel to South London on Saturday August 10 as they begin a season away from home for the first time since 2016.

"It'll be an emotional way to kick off the season," said Cleverley.

"That will be some occasion at The Den, no question.

"For us, just like all teams, it's about getting off to a great start. I don't think you can ever over-emphasise the importance of that.

"All the work we're doing now and in the weeks ahead is with that in mind.

"Being prepared and ready to go gives you a great chance to set the tone for the challenges ahead."

Cleverley said that the opening game was the fixture he looked for first – followed by the clashes against Luton Town.

Watford will travel to Kenilworth Road on October 19 before the return game at Vicarage Road on February 22.

"The first thing I looked for was the first game of the season - and after that the Luton games," the Head Coach said.

"But I'm sure it was the other way round for our fans and I get it!"

The festive period will see Watford host League One champions Portsmouth on Boxing Day and then Cardiff City on December 29.

"I'm aware that we've not been great on Boxing Day over recent years - at least I can't remember too many good ones,” Cleverley added.

"So it's nice to have another chance to put that right with a couple of home games at Christmas time."

For the full list of fixtures, which are subject to change, click HERE.