WATFORD are set to persevere with 4-3-3, which enables them to field a third striker.

"We have switched to a back four in the last couple of games. I want to keep playing three midfield players and that enables me to play three forwards if you like," said the Watford boss.

"It is a 4-3-3- formation or a 4-5-1 formation if you like. It depends whether we are in possession or are defending.

"We are likely to keep the same system for a little while. As I have said, we are looking to find the right balance between not conceding goals and scoring goals. I feel we are getting somewhere with this approach."

Vialli has had a further boost with the return of Allan Nielsen and Lee Cook to reserve team action.

"It is good to see Allan Nielsen back in action and Lee Cook as well," said the manager. "They obviously need to build up their match fitness but, as we approach near to Christmas with so many games coming, it is good to have players back.

"We have a good squad and those two will soon be in contention, perhaps next week."

Two former Arsenal men, Stephen Hughes and David Noble are not in the starting line-up at the moment but will be keen to break back by the time the Gunners visit Vicarage Road in the FA Cup third round.

Hughes is still resting and receiving treatment for a groin problems whereas Noble was a flu victim and was out for a week. In the process he lost his place and has been unable to regain it since the results have been coming Watford's way. He is, however, fully fit.

Filippo Galli has suffered a setback in his recovery from a calf injury.

Nigel Gibbs is undergoing different treatment this week core stability exercises in an effort to put his groin problems behind him.

Richard Johnson has been running as part of his rehab programme. He will be returning on January 6.

Dominic Foley is running on the treadmill, morning and afternoon in the gym but is still at least a couple of weeks away from full recovery.

December 14, 2001 11:00