Gerard Deulofeu has been amazed by the progress made by Kiko Femenia since joining Watford in the summer.

After a prolonged period on the sidelines, Femenia is close to a return to action and will hope to continue the fine form shown in the early stages of his Watford career.

Having played alongside Femenia for Barcelona and at various youth levels for the Spanish national team, Deulofeu is better placed than most to discuss the full-back’s progress.

He says he has been impressed with the manner in which the former Alaves man has adapted to the demands of the Premier League.

“Kiko before was a good player, but now he is an amazing player,” Deulofeu said. “He plays so well and I am happy to be with him.”

Femenia’s fitness issues mean he and Deulofeu are yet to feature alongside one another for Watford.

All that could soon change, however, with the 27-year-old expected to be back in action sooner rather than later.

With Deulofeu so far operating on the right, the pair could spark up a relationship on Watford’s flank.

Deulofeu is relishing the prospect of forming a partnership with Femenia and believes experience has allowed both to improve as players.

He said: “I want to be a good partner to him if we play on the right side together.

"I think when you are older you have confidence and experience and you play better.”