I could just about copy/paste my preview for Southampton and apply the same to Watford. Looking throughout their squad I see players that I know have come to the fore with big performances in the last few seasons, and yet they suffer from something I touched on in my Newcastle preview – where you equally feel a lot of those same players can go missing at the same time.

Watford’s ability to keep hold of Doucouré has probably overshadowed any incomings as their best bit of Summer transfer business.

Deulofeu flashed towards the end of the season – most famously as part of their cup run – but it remains to be seen if he can bring the consistency that has evaded him thus far in his career. His highs are most definitely high, but a player does not tred the career path Milan-Barcelona-Watford without having undeniable flaws in his game.

Outside of him, they should get another good season out of both Capoue and Hughes in midfield, while the incoming Sarr (for a transfer fee that raised eyebrows everywhere) and Welbeck could bring their own contributions.

Gracia has gained many admirers thus far in his managerial career, if only for managing to survive more than a single season at Watford – a rarely achieved feat. Critics seem keen to paint Watford as a ‘surprising’ club to be sucked into the relegation battle. I suspect they will have their flirtations, but ultimately end up safely in the middle of the pack. And then sack Gracia.

Ceiling – 9th

Floor – 16th