Okaka frustrated at Hornets two-week break

Striker Stefano Okaka admits he is frustrated his Watford side can’t immediately make up for last week’s home defeat to Southampton as they embark on a free weekend.

The Hornets were meant to make the trip to Premier League leaders Chelsea on Monday night, but FA Cup involvement for Antonio Conte’s side leaves Watford with their feet up without a game.

But after a disappointing performance that led to a 4-3 defeat at home to Southampton last time out, Okaka believes it would have been better for his side to unleash their frustration on the park sooner rather than later.

And with just one more game to come in March – against Crystal Palace next Saturday with an international break to follow – the 27-year-old admits he has struggled to find rhythm in a season blighted with injury.

“Two weeks is too much, after this game you want to play tomorrow to get some points,” he said.

“We have to work and wait and at Crystal Palace we will have to give everything and fight, like we did against Southampton, but we have to improve defensively.

“The first injury, it can happen. But another, after Everton, was unbelievable.

“I was back, played well and then missed another two months. I’ve ended up having three pre-seasons, in the summer, after West Ham and after Everton.

“My injury stopped me. I have been out for a long time since Everton, I work with my leg so it’s good news for me.”