TROY THE BOY

Javi backs Deeney ’n Co

JAVI GRACIA is banking on his goal-shy strikers to keep Watford safe this season.

The Hornets have made seven new signings this summer – but none are strikers.

With star man Richarlison joining Everton, it means the onus is on Troy Deeney, Andre Gray and Stefano Okaka to spearhead their attack.

The trio scored just 11 between them last season and Watford are now among one of the favourites for the drop.

But boss Gracia has handed them a vote of confidence, saying: “We need to improve those statistics from last season.

“We must try to be more effective in attack. In some of the closing games last season we got only one shot on target.

“But I’m sure they will be able to score more goals and Okaka, Andre and Troy will be successful.

“The players I have at this moment are the best and I have to be able to convince them that they are the best. Everyone thinks you can always improve the team but I’m happy with my players.”

It’s not all doom and gloom, though, at Vicarage Road, with in-demand Frenchman Abdoulaye Doucoure signing a new long-term deal.

Key midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah is also closing in on a comeback after almost a year out with a fractured knee cap.

Gracia added: “Richarlison is a great player, an important player, and we need to reorganise our team without him.

“But I’m very pleased Doucoure has signed a new deal. Many teams were asking for him and now I can say he is with us on a long contract and that makes me very happy.

“The player wants to stay. He always shows great commitment and makes a big effort in every game.”

Watford host Brighton today and Gracia added: “We should have high ambitions and moderate expectations. I prefer to be ambitious rather than speak about relegation.”