Beppe Sannino has fielded countless questions regarding Troy Deeney’s future in recent weeks. The latest drew an amusing response from the Italian.

Deeney has been the subject of transfer speculation throughout the summer and the Hornets have rejected bids from the likes of Leicester City and Burnley for the striker. 

The 26-year-old didn’t feature against Stevenage last night as Sannino rotated his squad but the Watford head coach was asked after the game if Deeney’s absence was linked to a potential move away.

He responded: “There was a lot of wind on the bench and I have a pain in my ear. I can’t hear your question.”

Sannino later added: “I am head coach. Troy Deeney for me is a big player for Watford but this question is not for me. I am not manager, I am head coach and I am very happy to have Troy playing with me.

“But I also have Diego Fabbrini, Odion Ighalo and Matej Vydra and I am happy with them.”