Javi Gracia has hailed Mauricio Pochettino as one of the world’s best coaches ahead of Watford facing Tottenham on Sunday.
Watford and Spurs will put their 100 per cent league records on the line at Vicarage Road, and Gracia sees no reason why the Hornets cannot be victorious.
Spurs stunned Manchester United 3-0 at Old Trafford on Monday night, with Lucas Moura impressing with two goals in the north west.
Gracia believes former Argentina defender Pochettino merits discussion among the world’s top managers, but is convinced Watford can stand toe to toe with in-form Tottenham this weekend.
“I know him, I know the technical staff as well,” Gracia told Sky Sports. “And in this moment I think he is one of the best coaches, not only in England but also the world as well.
“I think it (the Spurs match) will be a good challenge for us, and for me as well.
“For me all the games are important. But now after three wins we know we have the chance to win another one.
“We’re playing at home with the support of our fans, and now we feel stronger – we feel comfortable and we think we are able to go on in the same way.”
Tom Cleverley is the sole Watford star certain to miss Sunday’s clash, with the former Manchester United midfielder a long-term absentee due to Achilles trouble.
Gerard Deulofeu is back in training after a groin complaint, but Sunday’s match may come just too soon for the former Barcelona player.
“It is good news because we only have Tom Cleverley injured,” Gracia said on Watford’s official website.