Here’s how I see Daniels lining up, with not a whole lot needing to change.
Goalkeeper: Egil Selvik
Selvik is sure to start in goal, though his flapping at set-pieces at Hull on Tuesday is a bit of a concern.
The Norwegian needs to rediscover the stature that saw him impress last season.
Right-back: Jeremy Ngakia
The battle of the Jeremys is back on, after Petris came on for Ngakia at Hull, but the latter is likely to keep his place in the starting XI.
He impressed in the first half and it’s useful to have proper cover for him.
Centre-back: James Abankwah
Abankwah’s good form has gone a little under the radar, but he has stepped up in the absence of Mattie Pollock.
As long as he keeps those brain fades away, he’s a very good player.
Centre-back: Stephen Mfuni
Stephen Mfuni on the ball (Image: Alan Cozzi/Watford FC)
Mfuni is not guaranteed to continue with Kevin Keben available, but there’s no reason to leave him out.
He looked accomplished at left centre-back and his left foot offers the Hornets something different in build-up.
Left-back: Marc Bola
Bola will be asked to go again as he continues his run of playing every league minute since appearing as a sub at Sheffield United on October 18.
Centre midfield: Imran Louza
Louza played in a more advanced role on Tuesday and looked more like his old self.
Even though he missed a big chance, he is a real goal threat and can leave the defensive work to the next man on the team-sheet.
Centre midfield: Papy Mendy
Mendy’s excellent performance at the MKM Stadium prompted confusion as much as admiration. Where has he been?
Regardless, he is sure to start again.
Papy Mendy in possession (Image: Alan Cozzi/Watford FC)
Centre midfield: Edo Kayembe
Kayembe can frustrate with the tempo he plays at but I’ve been increasingly impressed by him recently.
He retains the ball really well, offers a goal threat – and has even been pulling out some silky flicks and tricks.
Right wing: Othmane Maamma
Maamma looked lively again last time out, just needing to find a bit more consistent quality with his deliveries.
He seems certain to start, with Kwadwo Baah ready to make a difference as a sub.
Left wing: Giorgi Chakvetadze
Giorgi Chakvetadze moves forwards (Image: Alan Cozzi/Watford FC)
Again, it was much more like the Chakvetadze of old at Hull.
As ever, however, we just need that bit more final product.
Centre-forward: Mamadou Doumbia
Doumbia offers something his competitors for the number nine shirt don’t, physicality and hold-up play.
More of a goal threat would be nice, but bringing Watford’s best players into the game is a very useful attribute.