Javi Gracia says Younes Kaboul’s future lies away from Watford and sees now route for the defender back into his Vicarage Road plans.

Kaboul was left out of Watford’s 25 man Premier League squad meaning January would be the earliest he could feature for the club.

The centre-back suffered and injury-plagued season in 2017/18 but the Watford Observer understands he has been training with the Hornets since the start of this campaign.

Gracia says Kaboul’s professionalism has never been in doubt, but says the 32-year-old will be allowed to leave the club.

“No [he won’t be considered for the next squad]. For me, Kaboul is a very good professional and person as well and I do not have any problem with him. The situation is that he is not in the squad and we have to understand this,” Gracia said.

“I don’t know the situation but if the player decides and the club decides he finds a good option I will agree with them.

“He has always kept a very good behaviour and commitment with us. He has tried to help us as much as he can.”