Watford head coach Javi Gracia has revealed talks over extending his contract are “going well”.
The Spaniard joined Watford on an 18-month deal in January following the departure of Marco Silva, and helped guide the Hertfordshire club on to a 14th place-finish.
The Hornets opened the new campaign with five straight victories, four in the Premier League.
However, Gracia’s side have not won since and were beaten 4-0 at home by Bournemouth ahead of the international break.
Nevertheless, the approach of the 48-year-old has gone down well with the squad and Italian owners, which looks set to see his stay at Vicarage Road extended.
“I’ll like to be here more time because I am very settled here,” Gracia said on the club’s official website.
“I see my long-term future here and I can fulfil my ambitions at this club. We are talking and talks are going well.
“I feel very happy here. I feel the love by the supporters and by the club.
“In football, you never know what happens in the next two weeks, but I prefer to focus on the next game, to do my job, to do my best, so we’ll see.”
Watford return to action at Wolves on Saturday.
Defender Christian Kabasele will be suspended following a red card versus Bournemouth.
Forward Gerard Deulofeu could be in contention to start after his return to fitness.
The former Everton and Barcelona player made his long-awaited comeback following a foot problem as a late substitute against Bournemouth, and has continued to step up recovery work over the international break.
“I think he is ready. He has been working hard in these last two weeks and he is in his best condition,” Gracia said at a press conference.
“I don’t know if he is able to play 90 minutes at his best level, but I think he is in good condition to play.”
Gracia confirmed defender Marc Navarro would be back in contention following his minor fitness issue.
Midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah, meanwhile, is being monitored after feeling a bit of discomfort in his knee when returning from international duty with England.
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