The performance of Will Hughes was arguably the biggest individual positive from Watford’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, and Javi Gracia believes the increasing number of options at his disposal is the “best news for the team”.

After three substitute appearances before the international break, the former Derby County midfielder made his first start since the end of November and impressed throughout with his passing, movement, awareness of teammates and work rate.

The length of Watford's injury list has been one of the biggest talking points of the season, but it is continuing to get shorter, with Craig Cathcart the latest to return to action for the Hornets as a second-half substitute for Sebastian Prodl.

Asked about Hughes' performance, Gracia responded: “I think he played well, but I am happy with all the team, not only with Will. It is not easy, first time, playing this season for me, but the most important thing is players are coming back, like Craig Cathcart, Kiko [Femenia] scored the first goal.

“We now have more options and I think that is the best news for the team.”

Having been pegged back at the death, the Hornets remain three points short of the 40-mark that is widely accepted as the total needed to be certain of another season at the top level.

For the Hornets head coach though, the mantra remains unchanged – focusing only on the next game against Burnley.

“I’m not sure of the points we need to remain in the Premier League,” he said. “I’m only sure we need more points. There are six games left and we’ll try to get more points, to do our best, but I don’t know if we’ll get more points than ever [In the Premier League].

“At this moment I’m only concentrated on the next game, try to enjoy it with our fans and do our best.”

Pressed further on the points required to be assured of safety, Gracia responded: “I don’t know. We have 37 and I don’t know how many points at the end of the season you’ll need to remain in the Premier League.

“These points will be enough maybe, but I don’t have my mind on the (total) points at this moment. I only focus on the next three points and try to get them and enjoy the rest of the season with the supporters.”