Heurelho Gomes expects Watford to do everything they can to keep hold of Troy Deeney but accepts it would be hard to stand in his way if the captain is offered an opportunity to improve his career.

The Hornets talisman netted his 13th goal in the Premier League this season after yesterday's draw at home to Sunderland in the final game.

Deeney's form has reportedly attracted the interest of Leicester City with the new champions considering a summer move for him.

Watford goalkeeper Gomes said: “Of course he’s a very important player but if there is an opportunity for him and he thinks it’s best for him of course he needs to [take it].

"But we’re keeping our fingers crossed he stays and the club will do the best that they can for him to stay."

Deeney's leadership and ability on the pitch has helped carry the Hornets to safety in the first season back in the top flight and the team's keeper has described him as a special player.

“He is a natural leader," Gomes said. "I’ve said that before and of course he was a very important part of the soul of Watford. I believe he’s going to be important for us in the next few years.

“You know Troy is a special man and a special player but you cannot just hold on without the other players as well. Probably if you disappoint him he’s not going to deliver the same performance every week.

"It’s up to the players as well to encourage him. When he sees someone run and tackle it makes him go for it as well. All the season we did this kind of things but he’s a special player for us."