XISCO MUNOZ credits Rafa Benitez and Claudio Ranieri for teaching him how to become a winner.
And he has used those skills to good use by turning Watford into a winning machine since taking over in December.
The Hornets will be promoted on Saturday if they beat Millwall at Vicarage Road.
And Spaniard Munoz – who has tasted victory in 16 of his 23 Championship games in charge – picked up his winning mentality at Valencia under the legendary managers.
As a winger, he won a Uefa Cup and LaLiga double in 2004 under Benitez before going on to win the Uefa Super Cup under Ranieri the same year.
Munoz, 40, said: “Rafa built a very good squad, the best I ever played in, and I’ve nothing but huge admiration for him and Claudio.
“Playing for Rafa was a life-changing moment for me in football. He showed me a different way to play football and how to be a winner all the time.
“What he did made me realise the process is the most important thing if you want to reach your goals.
“You must work hard every day, to try and give the best. That is what he taught me.
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“Both those managers have been consistent and successful in their careers as well as never once losing their ambitions.
“They have big powerful work ethics, good communication skills and lots of other things.”
Munoz keeps in touch with Benitez – who took Newcastle straight back into the Premier League in 2017.
The Watford boss added: “We’ve spoken about three or four different things.
Playing for Rafa was a life-changing moment for me
Xisco Munoz
“Rafa has had good results here in England so he’s a perfect reference for me.”
Munoz is a huge contrast from his predecessor at Vicarage Road – misery guts Vladimir Ivic.
The Serbian coach received his marching orders with Watford sitting fifth and three points behind the top two.
But Ivic’s highly-disciplined regime and downbeat demeanour, even after victories, did not rub off well on a hugely-talented squad.
Munoz has a far more happy demeanour – always smiling, courteous and good humoured but at the same time demanding nothing but the highest of standards from his players.
So how did he manage to build the momentum which has now seen Watford win 12 of their last 15 games – and win him the SkyBet Championship manager-of-the-month award for March?
He said: “Simple. Allow the players to enjoy their football.
“You are always going to have good or difficult moments in this game but the most important thing is to enjoy being with your team-mates as well as playing and working with each other.
“I try to give the maximum ambition for our quality and prepare the players as best I can for all the games.
“Of course, it’s good to show a sense of fun to the players. It’s important to have a good relationship with the group, all the staff and the fans.
“Together we have more power. It’s amazing when everyone has the same goal and the same motivation, what can be achieved.”
It is no secret that there are big personalities in the Vicarage Road changing room.
And Munoz has praised SunSport columnist and club captain Troy Deeney for his help and contribution since he took charge.
He said: “Troy has been great. He helps me and the players on and off the pitch.
“Even when he doesn’t play, he’s amazing – coming to away games to give the team support.
“We have a dressing room where no-one is selfish – and big professionals and we need this attitude to the end.”
But how does Munoz command authority in the Watford dressing when he is the 14th manager in 10 years?
He said: “My personality. When I was a player I was the same. You have to be honest. You know the situation. You don’t need anything special. This has been my style throughout my life
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“I always try to give honest decisions and understand mistakes. I am young, sometimes I make mistakes and it doesn’t matter. This is my philosophy in life.”
And being a winner of course?
He laughed: “Always. Even when I play a game with my son or daughter, I try to win.
“You must always give your best with a good spirit and high intensity. Only then are results possible.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
