Watford boss Slavisa Jokanovic says his players must show more personality in matches and believes the Hornets played a style of football “that wasn’t in our interests” during the 1-0 defeat at Ipswich Town.

Both teams had chances to win the contest at Portman Road but it took until the 83rd minute for the deadlock to be broken.

The Tractor Boys took a short free kick which ended with Kevin Bru firing towards goal. His shot was blocked but the ball fell to Tommy Smith whose powerful strike found the net and sealed the three points for the hosts. 

Whilst Jokanovic was pleased with aspects of Watford's performance, the Golden Boys’ head coach felt frustrated with his side’s attempts to match Ipswich’s physical approach.

“We helped them get control of the game and we started to play a game that is not in our interests,” Jokanovic said.

“I am happy with how the team fought but I am not happy with how we played. We gave control to Ipswich.

“It is not a question about mentality and fighting, it is about the personality to play football.

“If we lose the ball 30 metres up the pitch, it’s easier for us to defend. So we need to keep the ball and have more control.

“If we play this direct game, with many long balls, teams in the Championship are stronger than Watford.”

Jokanovic continued: “I can be happy with some parts of the game. My team created many chances, especially in the first half where we were more dangerous than Ipswich.

“I am disappointed though because my team played many minutes how Ipswich wanted us to play - we ended up playing Ipswich’s game.

“We are not very strong. Ipswich are stronger and have a different type of player.

“They are more physical. So if we play like Ipswich want to us play, it gives them a great opportunity to win the game.

“If we play in this way, we are not going in the right direction.”

The defeat at Ipswich, coupled with Tuesday night’s loss at Birmingham City, has seen the Hornets slip from the top of the Championship table to fifth place in the space of a week.

It is the first time this season Watford have lost back-to-back matches but it is the manor of the two defeats that will concern the Golden Boys’ supporters.

Jokanovic, who has been in charge at Vicarage Road for just over a month, says the Hornets will improve with time.

He did stress, however, that his passing style would not be altered.

“We have to work,” he said. “I believe my team is not ready to play in a different way. If I change my mind and start to play in a very different way, it will not be good for us.”