Gracia’s pointer

JAVI GRACIA made no apologies for his debut match when the ball was only in the supporting cast.

Gracia banked his first point in Watford’s 0-0 draw with Stoke. In 96 minutes and 41 seconds of tedium, the ball was in play only 43.3 per cent of the time.

But Gracia shrugged: “I’m focused on us playing well, not how much time the ball is in play. I don’t care if it’s 45 or 50 per cent. I’m worried only about the best way to play.”

Watford look certain to be without midfielder Tom Cleverley against Chelsea on Monday.