Playing with one out and out striker allowed Watford to attack with greater freedom against Wolverhampton Wanderers, according to Javi Gracia.

Isaac Success was deployed as the Hornets’ most advanced player at Molineux, while Gerard Deulofeu often moved up to join the Nigerian in attack.

The formation switch saw Watford depart from the 4-4-2 that Gracia had stuck to religiously in the Premier League prior to the Wolves game, and the Spaniard says it gives his side alternative options when going forward.

“We were playing with one striker and Roberto [Pereyra], Gerard [Deulofeu] and Will [Hughes] behind him. You can find a different style of play than you can with two strikers,” Gracia said.

“I know Gerard is not in the best condition yet but he helped the team to play well and to get a good result.”

Watford’s change of shape was in many ways an enforced one as a hamstring injury suffered by Troy Deeney ensured the Watford skipper didn’t travel with the squad.

Deeney’s injury is not expected to keep him out long and Gracia confirmed it is only a minor issue.

He said: “He has a hamstring strain but I think he will be ready for the next game.”