Ryoya Morishita’s second-half strike secured successive away victories for Rovers. It was a deserved win on the balance of the performance and the chances created.

Not only did Ismael’s side carry a threat in attack, they also restricted a dangerous Watford to few clear-cut chances. That pleased Ismael, who was very proud of his players and the way they executed the game plan.

“I am very proud, it was exactly the game plan we had,” Ismael said.

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“We knew in the first 15 minutes, we had to be strong. We knew they would come with energy and we had to stay calm.

“After 20 minutes, you saw we had more of the ball. We started to create big chances, Mori, Scott, Todd. We were dangerous.

“We scored the goal straight away, we showed more quality, more composure and we kept the ball. That was the instruction at half-time.

“After that, it was a tactical game for us. Watford tried to bring on energy and pace but we were more flexible from the bench. We changed our shape, protected the wide areas. They were not very dangerous.

“We had a few chances to finish the game, maybe a penalty on Andri. A great away performance.

“We were unlucky against Birmingham, unlucky against Norwich with the results but strong against Hull City, strong today. West Brom was the start of the season, too much chaotic situation.

“Now we have more options, more players. This win helps us speed up the process to help those players. We saw the quality they will bring our squad.”

Morishita enjoyed a moment to remember in front of the Rovers fans, netting his first for the club. It drew an emotional celebration and sheer delight for the Japanese forward, who has settled quickly.

Rovers waited patiently to sign the forward, knowing he wouldn’t be sold until Legia Warsaw’s Europa League qualifying games. But Ismael told the board to wait as long as possible to try and secure his services.

It’s early days but this was a clear example of the quality, composure and ability he will bring to the team.

“I saw that he had this quality,” he said.

“When we knew earlier in the window that we had the chance to get him but we’d have to be patient, I told the board we had to wait as long as possible.

“The wait was worth it today because we see clearly why he will be so important to us. He scored in front of our fans, the quality and experience he brings and the connections with Yuki (Ohashi) will be very important for us.

“He’s shown the big quality in training but he has desire. He’s a funny guy, happy, but when he doesn’t score he is not happy. This is what we like, this balance. To be smart, relaxed but then ruthless in front of goal.”