Slavisa Jokanovic says Almen Abdi suffered a shoulder injury in Watford's 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest and believes Troy Deeney isn't yet fit enough to start

The Swiss midfielder suffered the shoulder problem in the opening period of yesterday’s Championship clash. Abdi stayed on until the 50th minute but was then replaced by Sean Murray.

“It was a problem with his shoulder, I don’t know what exactly,” Jokanovic said after the game. “We tried to start the second half with him but after a few minutes it was clear he would not finish the game.”

Watford had performed impressively in the first 45 minutes of the match before their display dropped in the second half.

Jokanovic said that was in part down to the loss of Abdi.

He explained: “We lost the control when Abdi left the pitch, this is true. But it is not because one player goes off and one player comes in, the control is lost by the team.”

Abdi’s substitution was one of two enforced changes Jokanovic had to make against Forest. Sebastien Bassong was replaced with five minutes remaining by Tommie Hoban.

The Hornets boss stated the centre-back, who prior to Saturday hadn’t played since April, was suffering from tiredness.

While two players had to come off, Watford captain Deeney played the final 25 minutes as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Jokanovic admits it is too soon to start the striker but stated changes will be made to the Hornets side for Saturday’s clash with Middlesbrough.

He said: “Troy needs a little bit more time to be in the starting XI. We know how important Troy is for Watford, the schedule is very tough and we will make some changes for the next game.

“In the coming days we will decide what is better for us.”