Nathaniel Chalobah’s remains a long-term injury concern for Watford, despite reports suggesting he has stepped up his recovery from a fractured kneecap.

National reports claimed the midfielder was due to start running outside next week as he looks to return from a five month lay-off.

While the summer signing is making positive strides, Javi Gracia confirmed no date has been set for his return and he could not say if he will feature again this season.

“I am not sure [if he will be back this season]. I can’t tell you anything about that,” Gracia said.

“He is injured and I think he doesn’t come back in the next days and he will be injured for a long period.

“I am concentrating more on the players who will be able to come back in the next days or weeks. I don’t know how long he will be out for.”

While Chalobah’s prognosis is a lengthy one, there is better news for a quartet of Watford players, with Heurelho Gomes, Will Hughes, Miguel Britos and Kiko Femenia all back in contention.

All four have been training in the two weeks since Watford last played against West Ham and could play a part against Everton tomorrow.

“I am happy because all of them have possibilities to come back; Gomes, Will, Kiko and Miguel,” he said.

“I am not sure if they will be 100 per cent but the team need them now. It is possible and I do not know if all of them, but some of them will be available for this match.”

The return of four first team regulars is a timely boost for a Watford side ravaged by injury this season.

Gracia still faces a depleted stick cupboard heading into the final 11 games of the season.

Tom Cleverley, Christian Kabasele and Younes Kaboul all remain in the treatment room, but the overall fitness situation at WD18 is still brighter.