HORNETS' fans can start trying to work out who will be in Ray Lewington's first choice team following the release of Watford's squad numbers for the forthcoming season.

Although not necessarily an indication of the new manager's thinking with regard to the first 11, a number of interesting changes have been made to the shirt numbers the players will wear.

Player of the season Alec Chamberlain has, not surprisingly, been given the number one shirt, while Neil Cox will wear five, suggesting, perhaps, he will play the majority of games in the centre of defence.

There is only one recognised striker in the first 11, number nine Tommy Smith, while Stephen Hughes will wear ten, despite a disappointing first season at Vicarage Road.

Interestingly, numbers two and six have not been allocated, which may give an indication as to where the new boss thinks the squad needs strengthening.

Outside of the top 11, Richard Johnson, who is on his way back from a long injury lay-off, will wear 14, Gifton Noel-Williams has been given 15, Anthony McNamee, who burst onto the scene with such spectacular effect at the end of last season, has 16, and Heidar Helguson has been awarded 18.

For all the latest news from Vicarage Road, include full details on the new manager's appointment, don't miss this week's edition of The Watford Observer.

July 11, 2002 17:30