Survivor Hodgson back in old routine in wind and rain

BURNLEY, England: Watford's new manager Roy Hodgson conceded there will be plenty of 'what am I doing' moments after the 74-year-old watched his side grind out a 0-0 draw away to bottom club Burnley in a Premier League basement clash on Saturday.

Standing in the rain and wind at Turf Moor on Saturday evening, a soaked Hodgson could have been excused wishing he was back at home on a warm sofa.

But for a man who lives and breathes the game it was clear he was delighted to be back in the old routine as he tried to cajole Watford - the 17th club he has managed in a much-travelled career - to a vital victory.

In the end a point apiece in a game low on quality did little for either side's hopes of avoiding relegation although Watford did edge above Newcastle United into 18th spot, one point behind Norwich City with a game in hand.

"I'm realistic enough to know that as happy as I was to take up the offer, there will be plenty of times I will think 'what on earth am I doing?' And I'll deal with those when they come," former England manager Hodgson said.

While there was little to cheer the away fans on a bleak evening, a first Premier League clean sheet in 31 games offered some comfort for Hodgson.

"It's a really difficult place to come. I don't think many will look forward to games against Burnley," Hodgson said. "I'm pleased with the way the players went about their work.

"They showed great spirit, great determination and I think they showed everybody that they still care very much and they rolled their sleeves up.

"We know unless we defend in the way we did today - being compact and aggressive in our pressing - then you won't get clean sheets in the Premier League. I thought this was a stern test after only 10 days with the players