Watford manager Javi Gracia has highlighted Danny Welbeck as a very important player after the forward joined the club on a free transfer on deadline day. The England international spent the past five seasons with Arsenal but a series of long-term injuries meant that the Gunners decided against offering him a renewed contract.

Welbeck had thereafter been touted to join the likes of West Ham United and Everton, and the latter even made an approach on deadline day before the Hornets pounced on his signature. Speaking to the club’s official website, Gracia said that Welbeck remains a huge player for both the club and country and he is hoping to get the best out of the forward with his versatility.

He said: “He's a very important player, not only for me but everyone in this country. He's an international player for England, high-quality player and I think he's a very good player for us. He's a very good striker or winger; he can play in different positions. He is always attacking, he's a very fast player and is a strong finisher. To have a player of his experience and quality is good for the team.”

Welbeck certainly made a name for himself during his time at Arsenal and he scored a few crucial goals including the winner during the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United four years ago. Nonetheless, he was hampered by three long-term injury setbacks during his time at the club and the final of those ultimately tested the patience of the north London giants.

The Hornets started the campaign with a disappointing 3-0 home loss to Brighton & Hove Albion. Following the game, Gracia said that the team can have no excuses for the performance and they need to come up with a better showing when they tackle Everton on the road next weekend. Both Welbeck and deadline day purchase Ismaila Sarr could mark their debuts against the Toffees after missing the curtain-raiser with fitness concerns.