A desire to represent Spain at the World Cup in in the summer was the main driving force behind Gerard Deulofeu’s decision to join Watford on loan.

The Barcelona man agreed a switch until the end of the season last month as he looked to secure regular game time and a place on the plane to Russia.

Having started the season positively with Barca, where he made 17 appearances in the first half of the season, opportunities began to dry up at the Camp Nou for Deulofeu.

With the 23-year-old fully aware he needs to be playing to add to his four caps, he made the move to the Premier League in search of regular game time.

“It is 100 per cent the reason behind the move. When I played my best football in Milan the coach of the national team had confidence in me,” Deulofeu explained.

“Let’s see what happens. I know it is difficult, but that is why I came.

“I don’t want to be on the bench or out of the squad and not have the possibility to go with the national team.

“Now I am playing, I want to help the team and after that we will see if I go to the World Cup.”