Watford's Danny Webber - on loan from Manchester United - inspired a five-goal demolition of hapless Coventry City at Vicarage Road.

Webber impressed at Watford last season - and was the mastermind behind a sparkling attacking show from Ray Lewington's side.

The youngster, who has figured for Manchester United at Worthington Cup level, was both scorer and creator on a miserable day for new Coventry boss Gary McAllister.

Webber set the tone for a virtuoso show by setting up Stephen Glass for the opener after four minutes.

It was only a matter of time before Webber got the goal his brilliance deserved - and it came six minutes later as Watford put the game out of Coventry's reach in emphatic fashion.

Webber opened up the angle with a brilliant turn, before sending a curling finish beyond Morten Hyldgaard.

Coventry were in disarray, and it was no surprise when Watford added more in the second half.

Allan Nielsen stroked home the fourth after 63 minutes, and Paul Robinson piled on the agony for Coventry as he burst into the penalty area to sent a left foot drive past Hyldgaard.

Coventry's embarrassment was barely spared by substitute Gary McSheffrey heading home from Lee Hughes' cross five minutes from time.

John Eustace added another for Coventry with virtually the last kick of the game, but it did little to temper Watford's joy.

Watford: Chamberlain, Cox, Dyche, Gayle, Ardley, Hyde, Nielsen, Glass, Robinson, Smith, Webber. Subs: Vernazza, McNamee, Doyley, Foley, Lee.

Coventry: Hydlgaard, Shaw, Walsh, Davenport, Gordon, Thompson, McAllister, Safri, Eustace, Bothroyd, Hughes. Subs: Pead, Chippo, Quinn, McSheffrey, Montgomery.

Referee: M Ryan (Lancashire)