Xisco Munoz has spoken of his pride in his Watford players after they picked up a hard-fought victory away at Preston North End.

Having claimed a first win in four games on Saturday, it was important for the Hornets to continue where they left off and while they were not able to recreate their six goal demolition away at Deepdale, they remained patient and worked hard to claim another valuable three points.

The head coach thought his side had played with both passion and determination, as they won courtesy of a Joao Pedro penalty, and said he was delighted with their ability to find the performance they needed on the night.

"I'm proud of my team because sometimes you need one style, and another time you need to find another style that works," said Munoz. "So there was a lot of hard work. It was a hard game.

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"Today I can only say I'm very happy with the guys because I think they gave the passion. They played with spirit, with determination. This is our club, this is our style, this is our challenge and we need to follow this way."

With the club confirming ahead of kick off that captain Troy Deeney will be missing now for several games as he looks to recover from some "niggling injuries" Munoz knows the importance of having other leaders in his dressing room.

The Spaniard said he felt fortunate to have the players he has at his disposal, but that whoever plays has to step up to the level expected.

"I'm lucky with the players I have. I'm lucky. I have big players, I have excellent leaders," he said. "We want Troy to come back fast. For us Troy is important. But now who stays on the pitch, it's the moment for them to give their best.

"I'm very happy with them. I'm only concerned that who plays in this moment, everyone gives their maximum for our club and for our team."