Gerard Deulofeu ready to return for Watford, says Javi Gracia

By PA Sport

Image: Gerard Deulofeu could make his first appearance of the season for Watford

Watford winger Gerard Deulofeu is ready to make a first appearance of the season against Bournemouth on Saturday, manager Javi Gracia has said.

The former Everton and Barcelona player has not featured because of a foot injury and then a hip problem, but returned to full training last week.

Gracia is confident Deulofeu can now offer him greater options in attack with his versatility.

Watford boss Javi Gracia says it is too early in the season to predict where they will finish in the Premier League at the end of the season

"He can play in different positions. If we keep the same shape he can play as a winger on both sides and as a striker as well," said Garcia.

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"If we change the shape, to 4-3-3 for example, then he can play in the three positions as well."

Stefano Okaka, Miguel Britos and Sebastian Prodl will also be in contention for the Bournemouth game, Gracia confirmed.

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"All of them have a chance," he added.

"We have to know they are not in the best condition because maybe they need more training sessions to be better, but I think they can help us in the next game. We'll see."

Image: Nathaniel Chalobah has earned a call-up to the England squad

Gracia also praised Watford midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah after he was named by Gareth Southgate in the England squad for the upcoming Nations League double-header against Croatia and Spain following his recovery from a serious knee injury.

Chalobah trained with the England squad ahead of the World Cup, having been drafted into the senior set-up for the first time during September 2017.

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"He is feeling better day by day after his injury," Gracia said.

"He is now in a better condition and, in my opinion, he is a very good player for us and for the national team. I wish him the best."

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