Javi Gracia has backed his squad players to secure safe passage to the third round of the Carabao Cup at the expense of Reading tonight.

The Hornets head coach is eager to have an extended run in the cup competitions this season, but is still expected to make wholesale changes to his starting XI at the Madejski Stadium.

Speaking to the Watford website, Gracia was quick to highlight the belief he retains in his entire Watford squad and stress the importance of performing well in knockout competitions.

“For me all the competitions are important,” he said. “Not only the Premier League. I think it’s the best way to always to our best, all the focus is on the next game and next competition.

“We are playing in the Carabao Cup and trying to do our best and trying to get a good result and continue playing games in the competition.

“I am confident we can play with the players that are not playing in the Premier League and we for sure will compete in the game and try and get a good result.”

With chances to impress for fringe players appearing to be fleeting, in the Premier League at least, a host of Watford players will look to stake a claim against Reading.

Rather than place any expectations on those coming into the fold, Gracia is keen for his players to perform in a manner he is aware they are capable of against their Championship opponents.

“There is no pressure on the players, I think they only have to do what they usually do in the training sessions,” the Spaniard said.

“They always work very hard and they compete well and today is a chance to play against another team, enjoy playing and to show what they can do.

“I think it is a chance to show we are a good squad, not only the players we are seeing in the Premier League games.”