Watford midfielder Etienne Capoue has described Quique Sanchez Flores as a father figure and believes the team can improve again next season if the head coach remains at the club.

Flores has guided the Hornets to safety in the Premier League and a place in Sunday's FA Cup semi-final but there is speculation the Spaniard could leave this summer after just one year in charge.

Capoue has enjoyed a close relationship with Flores and believes he can help the team progress further should he see out his two-year contract at Vicarage Road.

The 27-year-old said: “Of course [team can improve next year] because it’s the first season. We expected to have a good year but we had a very good one with a lot of new players.

"Now he knows everyone and new players will come in next season to reach another step in the Premier League so why not?"

Capoue signed for Watford last summer and has played a key role in the team's midfield. The France international instantly established a strong bond with the Hornets boss after meeting him prior to joining the club.

“I think we have a special relationship," he said. "It’s more human than just talking about football. That’s what helped push me on. He’s a human and understands me and I understand him. It’s a simple relationship.

“We talk about anything outside football. We try to know each other and what we like. It’s like a dad and son or big brother and small brother. We have the same relationship."

Sunday's semi-final against Crystal Palace will be his first visit to Wembley and the midfielder hopes it goes better than his two previous last-four ties in France for Toulouse. 

Capoue said: “It’s my third semi-final after two in France. I played in the national team in a tough qualifier but this is one of the most important games of my career.

“I lost twice so I hope the third isn’t the same."