I’ve better options than Ndong, says Watford boss

Didier Ndong is yet to play a single minute for Watford since joining on loan in January – with Hornets boss Javi Gracia explaining he currently has better options.

The Gabon midfielder made it clear to the Sunderland hierarchy that he wanted to be playing Premier League football and the Black Cats accepted Watford’s second loan offer.

It is understood there are stipulations in the deal around number of games played that could make it permanent in the summer but that seems highly unlikely currently given the 23-year-old is yet to make his debut.

He was again absent from the matchday squad for the Arsenal game at the weekend.

Ndong has been on the bench for games against West Ham United and Stoke City but hasn’t been involved otherwise and now Watford have Will Hughes back from injury, Gracia’s options have been boosted.

When asked if there was an injury problem, Gracia told the Hertfordshire Mercury: “We choose other options because we have more players available and I choose what I think is best.”

Watford only have eight games remaining before the end of the season and it looks likely Ndong – a club record signing – will be returning to the Stadium of Light in the summer.

Speaking on his arrival at Watford, Ndong hoped to make the most of his second chance in the Premier League.

He said: “My aim for the six months until the end of the season is to be the best I can, to give everything and to show the club I am capable and to give them confidence to sign me in the summer.

“It’s a good chance to come back to the Premier League, it’s a chance for me to express myself and show everyone what I can do.

“I’m hoping that this loan goes well and that they take the option for me to sign.”