Hard work for 'amazing' Gray perfect timing for Watford, says Muñoz

Xisco Muñoz paid tribute to the “amazing” scoring feats and work rate of Andre Gray, following promotion-chasing Watford’s 2-0 win over Wycombe Wanderers.

Striker Gray netted both goals at Vicarage Road – one in each half – to see off the Chairboys, who remain adrift at the foot of the Championship.

Watford, on the other hand, enjoyed a productive night, with rivals Brentford losing at leaders Norwich City. Both teams are now joint second on 63 points, with the Bees ahead on goal difference, as Norwich enjoy a ten point lead at the top.

Nevertheless, the Hornets look in the mood – and following last season’s relegation from the Premier League, they hope their stay in the second tier is as temporary as possible.

Muñoz appreciates how Gray - who had only one goal to his name all season in the Championship beforehand - has come in and taken his opportunity following the suspension of Joao Pedro.

“Today Gray was back and gave for us two amazing goals,” said the Hornets' Head Coach. “It’s a really important game for him and I’m really happy because I know he works every day for this.

“I know what it’s like for strikers, they depend on goals, sometimes they arrive and sometimes they don’t. Today he gives us three points and I’m sure he’ll be important for the team. It's a good problem for the coach when you have Troy (Deeney), (Stipe) Perica, Gray, Joao Pedro in good moments and a good level."

The victory over Gareth Ainsworth’s side was a particular boost in the wake of losing 1-0 at Bournemouth in an ill-tempered affair on Saturday, as well as a clean sheet, Watford’s first in four games.

Muñoz added: “Another clean sheet is important for us, it’s important to continue with this balance. It wasn’t only the defence, all the team gave the maximum attention to defend from set pieces, when they shoot in front and in different areas.

“This wasn’t an easy game, because they have good players and lots of power. Today our team understood what was happening in the game and took control of it."

This fresh momentum now gives Watford extra confidence going into Saturday’s home game against 16th place Nottingham Forest.

“We need to learn about the different situations because all the other teams know about us," explained Muñoz. "We have different spaces we need to change, different tactics. It's not enough because I think we can get better every day, but we are in good direction."