Francisco Sierralta has been backed to "shine" for Watford in the Premier League next season.

Tactical analyst and pundit Adrian Clarke has described the defender, who has picked up an injury with Chile, as a someone who has "shown plenty of promise" in an analysis article for the league's official website.

The piece, which considers the impact the Chilean had following his arrival last season, claims he does not have one "standout strength" but highlights his ability to both regain lost balls and make interceptions.

It reads: "Growing in form and confidence with each passing week, Sierralta, who is part of the Chile squad at the Copa America, looks ready to shine at Premier League level next season.

"Playing on the left side of a partnership with William Troost-Ekong, the impressive Sierralta had a positive influence on results. The Hornets conceded fewer goals and earned more points once he became a regular in the starting XI.

"He does not have one standout strength but the Chilean is a commanding physical presence with excellent tactical awareness. His decision-making was outstanding during the second half of the campaign, earning him a reputation for reliability at Vicarage Road.

"Sierralta's sound positioning and natural assertiveness mean he is especially strong regaining loose balls and making interceptions."

Clarke expects that next season head coach Xisco Munoz could set up defensively and put men behind the ball, attacking mainly on the counter.

Therefore he predicts Sierralta's solid defensive displays will be as important to the Hornets' attack as it will be for their defence.

"Pleasingly for Watford the centre-back made no errors that led to a shot or goal in 2020/21 either and it is this dependability that should stand him in good stead as he steps up a level," he adds.

"Xisco's tactics are not possession-based so it is likely the Hornets will put men behind the ball and absorb pressure before striking quickly on the counter-attack next season. Therefore, Sierralta's performances will be integral to their prospects of picking up positive results. He is a central defender who has shown plenty of promise."