Watford enjoyed a fantastic season under Javi Gracia, exceeding expectations to finish 11th in the league table.
The Hornets have also reached the FA Cup final for the first time in 35 years, and have a bright future ahead under Gracia.
We take a look at the three best performers for Watford in the Premier League this campaign.
Roberto Pereyra
Roberto Pereyra has once again impressed with his industry and craft in the final third. The Argentine has been involved in only eight goals this season. But, his overall impact has been far greater than what the stats suggest.
Pereyra has mostly featured as a wide-attacker in Gracia’s 4-2-2-2 setup, where he has often operated as the ball-carrier. His partnership with Will Hughes has been crucial to Watford’s chance creation, with the duo averaging almost three key passes per game between them this season.
Pereyra’s remarkable and consistent performances did not go unnoticed either, as Chelsea were reportedly keen on making a move for the ex-Juventus in the winter transfer window.
Etienne Capoue
In a season where Watford were decimated by injuries in the midfield department, the presence of Etienne Capoue was key behind their impressive season under Gracia.
The Frenchman made 33 appearances, scoring three goals while providing one assist. His partnership with Abdoulaye Doucoure in Watford’s double-pivot has further solidified the midfield and provided extensive defensive cover for the backline.
Capoue’s ability to cut-off passing lanes and exert pressure on the opposition ball-carriers has also made the Hornets much more proficient during defensive phases. In fact, the ex-Tottenham midfielder has made more interceptions than any other player in the league this season.
Deulofeu
Another key player for Watford has been former Barcelona winger Gerard Deulofeu. The 25-year-old enjoyed his most productive season in the top flight, having been involved in as many as 15 league goals, which is almost a third of what Watford have managed as a whole this season.
Deulofeu has offered more pace and dynamism into the Watford attack that has made a dangerous side on the counter.
The Spaniard has also averaged one key pass and 1.6 success dribbles a game, while his tally of two shots per game is only matched by striker Troy Deeney.
Deulofeu successfully integrated himself into Gracia’s gameplan, and will be an asset for the club in the coming years. His future, however, is uncertain, with a return to Milan reportedly on the cards this summer.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
