Troy Deeney says his controversial goal celebration against Chelsea was his way of responding to weeks of transfer speculation surrounding his Watford future.

The Watford skipper raised both middle fingers after netting a 42nd minute penalty in last night’s memorable 4-1 win over Chelsea.

Having been repeatedly linked with a move away from Vicarage Road last month, Deeney wanted to send a message after scoring his fourth goal of the season.

“Obviously we have had a lot of transfer talk and transfer speculation,” Deeney told BBC Radio 5 Live. “I’ve kept quiet because I realise talking gets me in trouble.

“That was a case of letting everyone know I saw everything and I am still here.”

While Deeney may have made his presence felt on the night, the chances are he won’t have the chance to do so in the near future, with an FA ban likely to follow.

Deeney has already been suspended for seven games this season and a three match ban would see him miss games against West Ham United, Everton and West Brom.

If he was looking to send a message it was one which has surely been lost in translation.

Rather than suggesting he is “still here”, Deeney looks to have once again deprived his side of his attacking qualities as they continue their Survival bid.