Xisco Munoz has once again called on his Watford players to “fight like animals” as they try to cause an upset in the FA Cup this weekend against Manchester United.

The Hornets face tough opponents who currently sit second in the Premier League, level on points with leaders Liverpool, who are top only by goal difference.

The head coach said the game, which will only be his third in charge of Watford, will be difficult but that it is important for his team to provide the supporters with a performance to be proud of following their disappointing defeat at Swansea last weekend.

“Most important is we go there fight like animals and enjoy the situation,” said Munoz. “And I know it’s difficult because Manchester is a perfect team but we need to give our best and try and play very hard and most important for the fans to enjoy and to see our team. Everyone knows it’s a special competition and I’m very happy to stay here and to try and go one step further. This is important, we know it’s difficult but we will give our maximum in the next game and we will try to get one step further in this competition.”

Munoz could be boosted by the return of first team players Joao Pedro and Craig Cathcart, who returned to training this week, while the club were also given another boost in the shape of no positive Covid-19 tests from the first round of EFL testing following the implementation of stricter coronavirus regulations.

The game will give Munoz a chance to see how his team deals with stronger opponents, as he continues to work to bring in the changes he wants.

He is still hoping to bring in more of an attacking mentality, and wants to see his players keep the ball higher up the pitch.

“We want to change different things,” he said. “We want to try to play and stay a little bit up the pitch and to play more attractive football. We have very good players to try and I think you will see, you will see what we’re trying here.

“I want us to not stay only in defence but to play up, stay more in control of the game, we can give little different things. But step by step, it’s not easy. The time is important. You have the process and it’s also important.

“I know it’s easier to win if you have very good players, I have this and we need to work hard because we only have a short time.”

This weekend could also see Daniel Bachmann given another chance in goal after his last appearance in the defeat at Newport in the Carabao Cup.

“Danny works every day very hard. I’m happy with him. And you will see if we put him in in the next game,” said Munoz.