Javi Gracia feels his players need a break physically and mentally, but expects them to hit the ground running when they return for pre-season as he strives to maintain high performance standards throughout next season.

Although the Hornets were unable to finish the season on a high at Manchester United yesterday, top-flight status was already assured for a fourth consecutive season with Gracia leading the Hornets to 15 points from his 14 games at the helm.

The Spaniard believes Watford achieved their survival goal “without suffering a lot” and said: “Maybe we need next season to be demanding from the first day, to improve from the first day and I’m sure during all the season the team will be able to keep a good level and individually as well. We’ll try to keep a high level for all the players, not only for a period but for the season.”

Looking ahead to the summer break, the Hornets head coach said: “I think the players need to rest mentally and physically as well. They must go and prepare for the next season, when we start pre-season in July to be ready to do good work.

“For me I’ll be connected all the summer because you never know when it’s important to connect with the owner to speak about players and I’ll prepare for pre-season and all the things for that.”