Perhaps the most important measure Watford will have to take in securing a positive result aagainst Crystal Palace is shackling Wilfried Zaha.

The wide man has been vital in fuelling a revival which has taken Palace six points clear of danger after a torrid start to the season as they lost their first seven games.

Gracia is fully aware of the former Manchester United man's quality, but says he is more focused on what his team has to offer than stopping individual threats "I think he is a good player in this season. Palace has changed shape and he has played wide on the left or as a striker," Gracia said.

"I think he is doing a very good season and we know he is a very good player but I am confident my players will do a good job.

"I prefer to prepare the games thinking about my team and after that focus on the other team and try to find a balance."

Should Gracia strike the right balance and lead Watford to a victory, he will be able to celebrate taking the Hornets to the 40-point mark.

Such success has proven hard to come by in recent weeks, however, and Palace have been somewhat of a bogey team for Watford over the past few years.

Defeat would see the Eagles move above the Hornets and could leave Watford within six points of the drop zone with three games left dependant on other results.