The summer break is now upon us so no football to report this week but it was a significant week for me as a signed a new deal.
I signed a year’s contract with the club on Thursday so will be a Hornet for at least another season. I made no secret of the fact that I wanted a two-year deal or more but unfortunately this wasn’t on the table, so after much thought I decided to sign the one-year deal and look at it as yet another challenge to win my place in the team back and hopefully secure a two or three-year deal next season.
I’ve found myself in this position a few times before, notably under Aidy Bothroyd where I approached the Premier League season with a point to prove and a fight to save my career at the club.
I remember a day after meeting with him when I honestly felt my time at Watford was up. It was a horrible feeling to be told that I wasn’t needed but it was possibly the best thing that ever happened to me because it helped give me the motivation to propel my game to another level.
I had a similar challenge with Mart Poom was brought in but I managed to play the majority of the season ahead of him. Even back when Ray Lewington was the manager I was led to believe he had his doubts but I ended up as number one.
This situation is slightly different in that Brendan has been fantastic with me; he’s told me he likes me so it’s not so much a case of making him like me, more a case of proving to him that I can be a number one keeper for Watford once more.
I guess I view this as the latest chapter in what has already been an eventful career here. I would quite happily spend the rest of my career here - if wanted - truth be told. I look at some of the former stars who are still idolised by fans and I use that as motivation and inspiration at what can be achieved and what I’d love for myself.
Whether this happens or not who knows but, long story short, I honestly believe my best times at Watford are still to come. I have a point to prove to a few people but more importantly to myself so with that being the case I’m sure you’ll see the best of me next season.
Anyway other than that it was a quiet week, we had a few meetings regarding the summer break as well as individual meetings with the manager and finally broke up on Thursday. My plans are to relax for a couple of weeks before heading off to Florida on the 19th May. I’ll then go on from there to Vegas before returning in early June.
I then have one more excursion planned; to Alec’s villa in Spain for a little golf break before returning and really getting my mind set on next season. Although rest is important over the summer I will use it as an opportunity to get some good training in and make the most what will hopefully be some nice weather this year by spending a lot of time on the golf course. I played with Tommy Smith this week and he beat me comfortably so I’ll be hoping to get revenge soon.
I will continue with my diary over the summer but it may well be brief as I don’t want to bore you with my golf stories!
Have a nice week.