Francisco Sierralta is enjoying the challenge of being deployed in a more advanced role as Watford continue their preparations for the new Championship campaign.

Although the Chilean was used in his more accustomed central defensive role when necessary during Saturday’s 2-1 friendly defeat at Crystal Palace, he once again pushed more into midfield when his side were in possession, allowing Imran Louza and Tom Dele-Bashiru to try and get further forward.

The 26-year-old explained playing as midfield pivot role is not unfamiliar to him.

“I really like playing a bit further forward,” he said. “When I was young I often played there, as a number six, so it’s not completely new. Sometimes we play with three at the back, and sometimes I’m just in front, and I’ve liked it so far.”

Two second-half goals from Odsonne Edouard – either side of a good finish from the edge of the penalty area from Edo Kayembe – secured the win for the Premier League side, but the Hornets impressed with their pressing, structure and approach to the task, particularly during the opening 45 minutes.

Sierralta said: “It was a good test against a good team. It was intense, and I thought we played really well, particularly in the first half.

“We pressed and kept the ball, and I think it will stand us in good stead ahead of the first game against QPR.

“We’ve come up against good teams in Arsenal and Crystal Palace and we’ve done well. We know that we just need to keep going, continue to press like we did today and show what we can do.”

Watford now have two weeks before they get their new Championship season underway against Queens Park Rangers at Vicarage Road and Sierralta is confident their preparations are on track.

“I think the team is nearly ready,” he said. “We need to carry on doing what we’ve been doing, but I’m definitely very excited to be back out there and to get the new season started again.”