Aidy Boothroyd does not regret selling Heidar Helguson last year.
Adrian Boothroyd does not regret selling Heidar Helguson last year, as he feels both Watford and the player benefited from the move.Helguson was the focal point of Watford's attack in 2005 and his sale to Fulham that summer raised eyebrows at Vicarage Road.
The doubters were silenced, though, as Boothroyd used the money to bring in a number of new faces and was rewarded with promotion to The Premiership.
Helguson has performed well for Fulham since making the move to Craven Cottage and he will match up against his old side on Monday, live on Sky Sports.
The Icelander is likely to receive a warm reception on his return to Watford, but Boothroyd has no regrets.
"The time was right for Heidar to move, because we had hardly any money," said Boothroyd.
"It was right to use the money to bring in two or three players to score the goals to help us reach The Premiership, which they did.
"But Heidar is a player we will have to watch closely. We won't be making any special plans for him, but we will give him the respect he deserves and we will do all we can to stop him.
"Sometimes, players raise their game when they play against one of their old clubs."
Looking back on Helguson's departure, Boothroyd added: "When Heidar left, a lot of people were worried that it would be the end of Watford and that we would be relegated.
"But what we achieved subsequently shows that, sometimes, players like Heidar have to move on for the benefit of themselves and the club.
"He was a terrific, loyal servant to Watford. He was a genuine, honest guy who gave you everything, and he was a great player to have in the squad.
"He is a wonderful guy and I imagine he will do great things for Fulham."
