Could the acquisition of versatile midfielder Philip Zinckernagel propel Watford to the Premier League?

Watford have now won ten of fifteen fixtures under their latest manager, Xisco Munoz, along with six out of the last seven, as they seek to take advantage of Brentford’s sputtering form of late.

Adam Masina’s strike settled Saturday’s clash with Forest, a game shy of entertainment, but the industrious showing of recent acquisition, Philip Zinckernagel, certainly caught the eye.

Signed from Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt on a free transfer in January, putting pen to paper on a five-and-a-half-year deal, the tenacious midfielder put in an assured display, demonstrating a wide variety of attributes that will surely only positively impact this Watford side.

Admittedly, he did receive a caution during the second period after cynically scything down Forest’s Anthony Knockaert, however, Xisco Munoz will have excused the Dane, his eagerness to make an impact clearly shining through.

Generally deployed as a right winger, Zinckernagel’s versatility and proficiency as a box-to-box performer became glaringly apparent, and he seemed to cover an unparalleled amount of ground throughout the contest, be that shuttling forward on the press, preventing Forest from playing out, or thunderously retreating to lighten the load for his backline.

“I feel comfortable. Last game I could maybe find some more offensive areas and be dangerous going forward.”

“It was more about hard work [against Forest], but I think I’m doing pretty well, taking good decisions with the ball. It’s not my preferred position, I prefer to play higher up as a winger or a No.10, but I think I managed alright.” – Philip Zinckernagel: Watford FC Official website

Still only 26-years-old himself, stationed alongside young starlets in Ismaila Sarr and Joao Pedro throughout, 23 and 19 respectively, his know-how and guidance could be key in both their development, and his team’s aspirations.

His movement in an attacking sense was exemplary, constantly willing to embark upon darting diagonal runs from deep, bursting into the area to cause havoc amongst the Forest defence.

The Danish dynamo is highly aware, and his laser sharp vision also serves as another string to his bow. This quality became particularly apparent after the break, as he executed a sharp, defence splitting pass for forward Joao Pedro, who should have made more of the opportunity.

Zinckernagel also carries an eye for goal himself and attempted to guide home a bending effort from distance, which ultimately sailed harmlessly clear of Brice Samba’s bar.

Another ability possessed is the dexterity to play it simple, never phased in possession, rarely relinquishing the ball, keeping things ticking within the heart of Munoz’s side.

His tiresome shift saw Munoz withdraw the Dane after 80 minutes, perhaps a nod to his excessive work rate, especially when considering his limited action until late. The Spaniard was likely also contemplating looming contests that continue to arrive thick and fast; ensuring Zinckernagel remains fresh as he promises to play a pivotal part.

With upcoming fixtures against a handful of the chasing pack, including the likes of Cardiff City, Reading, Brentford and Swansea City, Zinckernagel’s experience and clear ability will undoubtedly be crucial if his side are to avoid the impossibly unpredictable play-offs and clinch automatic promotion to the big time.

With the departures of Domingos Quina and Etienne Capoue in January, he could prove to be a key acquisition for the Hornets as they tackle the final stretch of their journey to clinch a swift return to the Premier League.

Prior to making the move to Hertfordshire at the turn of the year, Zinckernagel’s entire career had been played out in Scandinavia, spells at Danish clubs HB Koge, FC Helsingor, and SonderjyskE preceding his three-year spell in Norway with Bodo/Glimt, where he made 82 appearances, also chipping in with an impressive 31 goals.

Along with a penchant for converting chances during his time with then first time Norwegian champions, Bodo/Glimt, he also garnered a reputation as an assist king. Zinckernagel played a part in an extraordinary 37 goals in just 28 league outings last year, registering 18 goals to accompany 19 assists.

Granted, this astronomical level of productivity will not be sustainable transitioning to the gruelling Championship. However, he has already opened his Hornets account, notching in the 6-0 mauling of Bristol City, and his assuredness upon sight of the whites of the post promises to be an invaluable aid to the Hertfordshire club.

Considering this is his first taste of English football, he appears to have adapted seamlessly, despite having to remain patient before becoming a more significant factor in Munoz’s plans. Making his bow at Old Trafford back in January during an FA Cup tie, his appearance at “The Theatre of Dreams” was one of nine substitute appearances he had been limited to upon arriving on these shores.

Zinckernagel made just his first start in the 2-0 victory over Wycombe Wanderers last Wednesday, meaning this was only his second stint amongst the starting XI for the Hornets, reaffirming the tremendous composure the Dane is displaying.

On Saturday’s showing against Forest, the Hornets could well have uncovered a gem, and if they are to regain their Premier League status, it will be fascinating to see whether Zinckernagel can make the step up and perform on the grandest of stages, as he continues to impressively prove his worth at Championship level.

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