WATFORD, preparing for the trip to Crewe Alexandra on Saturday, September 22, followed by the visit of Birmingham City, received a further boost with the news that Stephen Hughes is back in full training, and Allan Nielsen is likely to return to the fold.

"They may be back in training with us by the end of the week," said Vialli, "but they will have been out three weeks, and that is a bit much to ask them to be back in action on Saturday."

They are more likely to be in contention for the Birmingham game on Wednesday, September 26, but for the trip to Crewe, Nordin Wooter, who suffered from a tightening hamstring against Norwich, is expected to be fit.

Watford's shortage of midfield alternative was lessened with the return from suspension of Paolo Vernazza.

Said Vialli: "Paolo is playing fantastically. He is playing very well, and, from my point of view, most of the time he has been man of the match."

Meanwhile, Paul Robinson, who sustained a blow to the back of the head and a further blow to the gum, has been assessed, as is the norm, for the first 48 hours after suffering from concession.

"He was unconscious initially but he has since recovered," said assistant manager Terry Byrne.

Patrick Blondeau is still receiving treatment on a calf injury, but is expected to rejoin the squad in a week or so.

Nigel Gibbs was progressing well, but feels some soreness in the operation area of his groin. He will undergo a series of medical tests to determine the reason for this.

Rodney Jack, who has troubled Watford before, is back in the Crewe line-up after recovering from a groin strain.