Rocket man Sir Elton John played a sell-out gig at his beloved Vicarage Road and told relegated Watford players: “Play with a lot more f****** passion.”
On his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, the former Hornets chairman – who presided over five promotions, an FA Cup final and European football in two spells – told an emotional crowd: “This club saved my life.”
Between hits from his vast back catalogue, Sir Elton implored fans to get behind new manager Rob Edwards. Watford slipped back into the Championship last season after picking up a pathetic eight points from 19 home games, the worst campaign in their history, including 11 consecutive defeats at Vicarage Road.
Superstar fan Sir Elton said: “Yes, we had a horrendous year last year, but we’ve got to put that behind us. We’ve got to back the new coach, we’ve got to back the team and they’ve got to play with a lot more f***ing passion than they did last year. I first came to Vicarage Road when I was six years old in 1953 and it was a pitiful sight. And when I became chairman it was still a pitiful sight, but now we have a beautiful stadium and I’m so proud in what I see.
“You have no idea how much this club is embedded in my soul. I love this club so much, it’s part of my life. It’s been a huge part of my life, not just coming here as a child and then getting involved in the club itself, but I loved the people within the club when I became chairman - the board, all the supporters, I loved every single moment. It saved my life, this club. I can’t wait to finish the tour next year so that I can spend more time here with you and watch the games.
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“But you’ve been brilliant supporters. You’ve stayed there through thick and thin – and, God, it was thin last year. But we will improve, we will get there and we have to believe. I love you, Watford Football Club. I love you so, so much. I wish you love, happiness and health. Be kind to each other and I’ll see you when I can.”
New boss Edwards faces a tricky start with Watford's first three games against Sheffield United, West Brom and Burnley. Sir Elton's previous concert at Vicarage Road, in 2010, raised £550,000 – and then-manager Malky Mackay staked the lot on striker Troy Deeney, who rewarded the investment with 140 goals in 419 appearances over 11 years.
