The Watford faithful are waking up today to a bittersweet announcement that has sent ripples through the Golden Boys’ community.
Our esteemed colleague, who has tirelessly chronicled every twist and turn at Vicarage Road for the Watford Observer, has officially hung up his press pass. Yes, yesterday marked the last working day for the dedicated Watford correspondent, Andrew French, as he embarks on a completely new chapter.
For three seasons, Andrew has been more than just a reporter; he’s been the voice of the fans, experiencing the highs and lows alongside them, albeit from the press box. He’s revealed that “for the first time in three years, a Watford goal will be something I can openly celebrate rather than frantically start typing or sitting on my hands.” The upcoming Championship fixtures will be viewed through the lens of a pure spectator, and “Saturdays will be mine.”
The news, initially shared a little while ago, confirms Andrew’s decision to step away from the demanding world of football journalism to return to PR in the UK holiday sector. It’s a move, he candidly admits, driven by “the betterment of my health and life,” a stark reminder of the immense pressures that come with covering your beloved club with such unwavering commitment. As he put it, “my head has nagged me for six months to call it a day; my body has been dropping hints, and it’s the latter which convinced me.”
In a poignant farewell piece, Andrew extended his heartfelt gratitude to the legions of fans who have followed his work, offering not just praise but also welcoming constructive criticism. “Although they are less fun to read, I’m also grateful for the criticism, outright disagreement, negative feedback and usually anonymous personal abuse,” he wrote, adding that “the good stuff made me happy, the bad stuff kept me on my toes.” This level of engagement truly highlights the connection he forged with the fanbase.
His tenure wasn’t just about match reports; it was about delving into the heart of the club. From candid player interviews, like the “explosive stuff that allowed fans to get an idea of what life had been like behind the scenes during the 21/22 relegation season” with Dan Gosling, to behind-the-scenes insights, Andrew consistently aimed to provide depth and understanding. He shared anecdotes that painted a vivid picture of life covering the Hornets, from being locked in a stand at Burnley to navigating challenging interviews with players like Yaser Asprilla, who he describes as “hard work.”
Perhaps most touching is his expressed desire to return to the stands, to experience Watford as a fan again, alongside his sons. “Next season, I’m looking forward to going to some games with my sons, getting in the away end a few times on the road, and watching the Hornets like the fan I always have been,” he shared. It’s a testament to his genuine love for the club, a passion that clearly transcended his professional duties. He even indulged fans with a Q&A, offering a glimpse into his personal preferences, dream dinner parties, and his all-time Watford FC XI.
Andrew leaves a legacy of objective, yet deeply personal, reporting. While he admits to a regret in not interviewing Gino Pozzo—“I will always be regretful and frustrated that I didn’t get a chance to interview Gino Pozzo”—believing it could have helped bridge the gap between ownership and fans, his contributions have undeniably enriched the Watford community’s understanding of their team.
So, as Andrew French closes his laptop for the final time as the Watford Observer correspondent, we at Learners Room extend our deepest thanks for his incredible dedication and insightful reporting. He’s proven that even when working, the heart of a true fan beats strongest. We wish him all the very best in his new venture and look forward to perhaps sharing a cheer with him in the stands next season. Come on you ‘orns!
In other news, Report: Crystal Palace’s £6.7 million pursuit of Watford transfer dismissed as “Laughable”.
