Joao Pedro insists Watford can beat Newcastle United this afternoon and that the whole squad is united in that belief.

The Hornets go into the match on the back of seven straight defeats in all competitions, with Claudio Ranieri picking up just two wins after taking over from Xisco Munoz.

Ahead of a crucial week, with games against Newcastle, Burnley and Norwich City all to be played in the next six days, now is the time for them to start picking up the points they need to move themselves away from the relegation zone.

The Brazilian, who could be in line for a place in today's starting XI following impressive displays against Tottenham and Leicester, knows it is going to be a tough few days.

“I believe we can [beat Newcastle], and I think the whole squad does too,” he told the club website.

“We know what we’ve got to offer. Sometimes you can’t make the most of your potential because for me the Premier League is the hardest league in the world, so this can happen. But the squad is united, focused and we believe we can do it.

“We’re confident, even if the game is away from home. I believe we’re confident right now but the thing is we’ve got to bear in mind Newcastle are also keen to get three points, and so we’ve got to go there and avoid defeat and pick up as many points as we can.”

Should he score today, he would add to his solitary Premier League goal, which he scored in the 4-1 win over Manchester United.

He explained how that moment meant a lot to him, due to the recent death of his step-father.

“Personally speaking, it was an unforgettable moment because I suffered a loss in my family,” he explained.

“My stepfather always dreamt of watching me play against Manchester United so it wasn’t just a special moment for me but also for my whole family, because scoring in that game has meant that date will be one I’ll never forget.

“They’re two different options, because on my birthday there were many family members present and against United I was going through a tough time. So I think both really left their mark on me.”