RALPH Hasenhuttl has labelled Watford manager Roy Hodgson as “addicted to football” ahead of facing the experienced boss at his 17th club.

The 74-year-old was appointed as the Hornet’s manager following Claudio Ranieri’s sacking in January.

He has held over 20 jobs in management during a career which started back in 1976, and included a four-year spell at the helm of England.

Hodgson only departed Crystal Palace at the end of the 2020-21 season, and did not confirm then if he was retiring from the job or not.

At the time, he said: "I've seen so many people retire with all the fanfare blazing, only to surface again somewhere in a fairly short period of time. I'd prefer not to do that.”

Now, his side prepare to travel to St Mary’s and face Saints on Sunday, March 13, with Premier League relegation looming over.

Asked if he was surprised to see Hodgson back, Hasenhuttl responded: “No, because he’s addicted to football and that is the reason why he is back again.

“He’s an unbelievable person, fantastic character and hopefully we see a good game.”

Asked about the test Watford present, he added: “If you ask me tomorrow, I can tell you more.

“It’s tough for me to speak about Watford at the moment. They are more stabilised now and have had some good results on the road I think, it will be a tough game.

“Two teams are meeting each other who haven’t been the most successful during the week so it will be important to find better answers for the weekend.”