Javi Gracia’s habit of getting the better of bigger sides is well documented, indeed it was the statement repeated most readily upon his appointment.

During the 2015/16 season the then Malaga boss went unbeaten against Real Madrid just a season after Gracia’s men had taken four points from soon to be treble winners Barcelona.

These are the sort of CV bullet points which make employers take note, and fans will do the same ahead of a meeting with Chelsea tomorrow evening.

While Gracia certainly takes pride in his previous triumphs, he views games in singularly and insists there is no formula which will guarantee success against the Blues tomorrow.

“It depends on the moment because many times against the same team we play a different way. There is not one way to play against a team,” he said.

“I am excited to play at Vicarage Road. I am looking forward to it and I am going to make sure I enjoy it.

“The players are looking forward to the match and want to get the three points for the supporters and see them happy.”

Watford come into the game on the back of the 0-0 draw against Stoke City in what was Gracia’s first taste of Premier League football.

The performance was a stark improvement on the display which led to a 1-0 FA Cup third round loss in Gracia’s opening game in the Watford dugout.

Gracia was delighted with the manner in which his side reacted to the cup exit and his belief in Watford’s squad is growing.

“After the last match I felt truly happy because I saw improvements and I like what I have seen in these days. I feel more confident and all this is important to make a good game,” he said.

“The players are looking forward to the next match and want to get the three points for the supporters and see them happy. We are doing a really good job and I hope they will get a victory.”