Gianfranco Zola is relieved to have Ikechi Anya back to full fitness and says the Watford winger’s pace can make a big difference to the Hornets' creativity this season.

Anya suffered a calf injury and had not played for the Golden Boys since the start of November before returning to first-team action against Leeds United on Saturday.

The 25-year-old provided a constant threat on the counter-attack at Elland Road and Zola insists Anya’s pace can be a big boost for his team.

“Ikechi is a lively player,” Zola said after the 3-3 draw. “When you have him on the pitch he can transform the action.

“He can turn a chance for your opponents into a chance for you because of his pace.”