Wolves v Watford: The inside track on The Hornets

We spoke with Harry Gray of the Watford Observer to get an inside track on Javi Gracia's side.

It's been an eventful start to the season for Watford, how would you assess the first eight games?

The opening games of the season could not have gone better with five wins in all competitions.

Since the first international break, however, the Hornets haven’t won a game and were abject last time out in a 4-0 defeat to Bournemouth.

They played well in a loss at Arsenal and draw with Fulham and could have got more from each match.

What sort of transfer business did Watford do over the summer?

Much of the business was done early with the acquisition of loanee Gerard Deulofeu on a permanent basis the marquee arrival.

Ben Foster returned to the club to answer the need for a new number one, while Ken Sema added an extra option out wide – a necessity given the loss of Richarlison to Everton.

Teenagers Ben Wilmot and Domingos Quina also joined and look to have the talent to make an impression at Premier League level in the future.

Defenders Marc Navarro and Adam Masina have also joined.

What have you made of that business?

It was a largely successful window, with Javi Gracia opting to tweak his squad rather than perform a complete overhaul of his squad.

They have benefitted from the continuity this has created, although a further wide or attacking option could be missed should injuries set in.

How is the Deeney/Gray partnership working?

Both players clearly work better with a partner and Deeney’s physical style suits that of the quicker Gray who can feed off his partners hold up play.

The five goals between them is evidence of their impact this season and they have been key to a number of Watford’s wins this term.

Deeney is far fitter after embracing a new fitness regime and Gray looks to be playing with greater confidence.

Who is the Watford dangerman Wolves should worry about and why?

Roberto Pereyra has been the main threat going forward despite his form dipping slightly in recent weeks.

Look out for Etienne Capoue as well who has been vital in controlling games from central midfield.

How do you expect Watford to line up?

Gracia has stuck religiously to a 4-4-2 in the league and it would be a surprise to see him change at Molineux.

Suspensions to Christian Kabasele and Jose Holebas should see Adrian Mariappa and Adam Masina come into the XI.

What is the target this season?

The target remain s survival at this stage, but Watford’s strong start, coupled with good performances against some top sides, has given genuine belief to a top half push.

What have you made of Wolves from afar? Do you think they have a team capable of doing well in the Premier League and finishing comfortably?

They have been hugely impressive and are clearly well organised given the limited number of goals they have conceded.

The summer recruitment drive has added to a squad well capable of competing in the Premier League and I expect survival to be secured comfortably.

My only concern would be the need to score more goals.

What is your match prediction?

I see it being a close clash and Watford could well be happy to take a point on the road given Wolves’ fine recent form.

Watford could struggle to create against Wolves’ defence and a makeshift Watford back four can be got at. I’ll plump for a score draw and say 1-1.

You can follow Harry Gray on Twitter at @harryjbgray