Watford's sporting director Cristiano Giaretta admits the club "could have done more" with relegation looking like a distinct possibility this season.

The Hornets sit six points behind 17th place Everton, who also have a game in hand, with only seven matches remaining.

The Italian acknowledges that Watford have made things difficult for themselves this season, as they go into the final stretch of games in need of an almost miraculous turn around in fortune.

“We knew the Premier League would be difficult," he told TuttoMercatoWeb.

“The Premier League level is very complicated, we could have done more but everything is still open, even if we have complicated our lives. The team is built to stay in the Premier League, then you know, the ball is round."

One thing the club did to try and reverse their poor form was to make two head coach changes, with both Xisco Munoz and Claudio Ranieri moved on.

Reflecting on the brief tenure of his compatriot Ranieri, Giaretta said the club simply could not get out of "a dark period" under his stewardship.

“He brought us something positive, then we couldn't get out of a dark period and we changed," he said. "Hodgson is bringing his experience. We are talking about two very good coaches.”

Regardless of where the Hornets are next season, Giaretta hopes to still be there with them.

“I'm very comfortable here, it's a great experience. I hope to stay for a long time," he added.