Doyley epitomises Boothroyd spirit

When Aidy Boothroyd walked into Vicarage Road exactly a year ago a number of regular first team players must have feared for their futures.

The side had been struggling desperately under previous incumbent, Ray Lewington and in real danger of falling into the third tier of English football for the first time in seven years.

Initially, the young Yorkshire born manager did what he had too to ensure safety, eking out sufficient points with a number of the tried and trusted individuals who had let Lewington down so badly.

Come the summer though it was all change and a number of the establishment departed for pastures new and at that time it was thought young squad member, Lloyd Doyley may well follow suit.

The unassuming Doyley had been a bit part player for the most part under Lewington's reign, and indeed warmed the bench as an unused substitute during the new manager's first game in charge at Burnley barely two months earlier.

Well that's all changed under Boothroyd and now the Whitechapel born defender has blossomed into one of the most dependable right backs in the division, playing a major part as Watford surged into automatic promotion contention.

Doyley's form throughout this season has been so accomplished that the equally talented James Chambers is finding it impossible to displace him.

The Londoner's professionalism has impressed fans and management alike, a fact not lost on Boothroyd as he celebrates twelve months in charge,

“Doyley was an 'in and out' squad player but has now become our top right back. Lloyd is dependable, honest and desperate to get better as a player. He would encompass the type of character that we want at this club”.

It would appear that Doyley has at long last, finally won over the many doubters who thought he would never make a Championship player, and in less than two months time will hopefully be in the Premiership.