Marc Navarro says Saturday’s loss to Arsenal was a bittersweet occasion after he made his Premier League debut for Watford,

The right-back replaced the injured Daryl Janmaat as Watford boss Javi Gracia was forced to change his starting line-up for the first time in the league this season.

He was unable to prevent the Hornets going down to a 2-0 loss at Emirates Stadium as a Craig Cathcart own-goal and Mesut Ozil effort gave the hosts three points.

For Navarro, playing in the English top flight for the first time was an enjoyable experience even if the result was less than satisfactory.

“I am very happy for my first match with Watford – my debut in the Premier League – but it would be better if it came with a victory,” he told the club website.

“For me it was a dream, since I was young I dreamed about my debut in the Premier League and now it is a reality.

“I think the team has done very well in the match. The team has a good attitude, but the result was not good.”

While injury for Janmaat may have finally given Navarro his chance to feature in the Premier League, the summer signing is by no means pleased to see his team-mate sidelined.

The 23-year-old believes the loss of the Dutch international, who is set to miss up to six weeks with a knee injury, will return to the Watford camp in good health.

“I was pleased to get my opportunity, but the injury to him is not good,” he said. “He is a very strong man tough, and in time he will come back.”