Watford striker Josh King didn’t start a single Premier League game during his six-month spell at Everton but scored a hat-trick against his former employers on Saturday
Video Unavailable
Troy Deeney’s Watford knowledge is put to the test
Watford star Josh King scored a hat-trick against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday afternoon – just months after being released by the Toffees.
The Norway international, 29, didn’t start a single Premier League game during his six-month spell at the Merseyside club and had a point to prove.
King’s three goals helped Watford recover from 2-1 down to win 5-2 against Everton, giving new Hornets manager Claudio Ranieri his first victory.
The player signed for Everton in January but failed to score in his 11 Premier League appearances under previous boss Carlo Ancelotti.
After being released in the summer, King vented his frustration at Ancelotti – claiming the current Real Madrid manager “lied” to him.
Did Josh King deserve more of a chance at Everton? Let us know in the comments below
When asked by Norwegian outlet Dagbladet if Ancelotti mislead him in June, King said: “Yes I do [believe Ancelotti lied].
“That’s how the football world is. This is how it is when you get to the top of the real world. That’s the way it is. But no, I do not regret that I went there [Everton].
“But yes, he lied to me. But again; There are not many honest people who work in football. Except for the players, then. I had no relationship with Ancelotti.
“The gut feeling said Everton when their offer came on the table. But I had never thought that in 18 games I would not be allowed to start one.”
King had a decent record at former side Bournemouth, scoring 48 goals in 161 Premier League appearances before they were relegated in 2019-20.
He came through the ranks at Manchester United and has also represented Preston, Borussia Monchengladbach, Hull and Blackburn during his career.
King added: “I did not get the chance, not a single start. Had I got a start and not performed, I would have understood it.
“I had another offer that gave much more security, but was told that I would get to play and that I would get the chance at Everton. But it was not delivered, so then I feel that was not the intention, just.
“Do not trust coaches who promise you things and say you will get the chance, that you will start.”
Ancelotti left Everton for the Spanish capital shortly after King’s departure and has since been replaced by former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez.
Speaking to the press after his hat-trick, King said: “For a striker it is confidence. I had a horrible season last season. Any striker when you start scoring gets confidence.
“We needed the win today. This is a great group with togetherness. This is a team sport and sometimes I won’t score, sometimes I will.
“Anyway way I can contribute – goals or assists – I am happy.”
Pick up your FREE Panini Official Premier League Trading cards this weekend – Find out how here
