'I watched many Watford games last season'

New Watford head coach Javi Gracia has revealed he kept a close eye on the club last season prior to being re-appointed earlier this month.

The Spaniard agreed to return to Vicarage Road, having been in charge previously in 2018-19 when they were in the Premier League, in place of sacked Paulo Pezzolano, following talks with owner Gino Pozzo.

"For me to be happy in a club, to enjoy it day by day is what I really want to do in my job. Before coming, I spoke with Gino and explained to him what I was thinking before coming and I think we found a meeting point where we can work again together and enjoy this new experience," he said.

"The owner thinks I'm the best option to come here and I always will be ready to help Watford, for sure. I had many other options to work in other countries and in my country as well.

"I watched many games of Watford last season when Tom (Cleverley) was the manager - Tom was my player (for the club) and I was supporting him. I know very well the team, the players, all the club in general."

Asked what had changed since his departure six years ago, he replied: "For me the club doesn't change too much. It is similar to when I left Watford but now it is a different competition but with the same objective, try to win the next game, try to be on top, try to be the best, that's our mentality."

Gracia's first match in charge in his second spell is away to Sheffield United - managed by ex-Watford boss Chris Wilder - on Saturday.