Strikers are often characterised as a gluttonous bunch, with goals being the sustenance by which they sustain themselves.

It was little surprise then that Andre Gray, despite departing St James’ Park a goal to the good, was left mulling over the two gilt-edge chances which went begging either side of his second Watford goal.

The £18.5 million record signing has toiled at times this term, and failed to inspire confidence as he first lashed wide left-footed and then tamely placed a shot at Rob Elliot.

For Gray, a comfortable win on a day when he felt Watford were not at their best was reward enough, even if he accepted he could have boosted his goal tally considerably.

“It is a great win for the boys, especially as I don’t think we played that well and have played a lot better this season,” Gray explained.

“If I am being honest, I think I should have come off with the match ball and I have missed two good chances and should have done better.

“I think the first chance was the first one I have had in the last few games where I have gone through on goal and I have made the wrong decision.

“If we can play like that and come away with the three points, three goals and a clean sheet it is a good sign.”

Gray’s goal owed much to the individual quality of Richarlison as the Brazilian clipped a delightful cross for him to finish well on the slide.

The manner in which Gray celebrated raised more than a few eyebrows as the former Luton man cupped his hands to his ears in front of the travelling Watford support.

Rather than being a message to the Hornets fans, Gray said his celebration was born out of personal irritation.

He said: “Richarlison has put a great ball in for me and it is a case of getting something on it and putting it in the back of the net.

“It was a frustrated celebration from me, but that is part and parcel of football.

“At the end of the day we have been winning games and I have got a couple of assists and that is all that matters.”