Hornets boss Walter Mazzarri believes the current opportunity for the club's young players to feature in the first-team squad is fundamental to their future.

Watford's squad has been decimated by injuries which has handed several chances for academy players to step in.

Brandon Mason and Michael Folivi have both made their debuts in the last week and a number of youngsters are likely to feature at home to Burton tomorrow in the FA Cup.

Head coach Mazzarri said: “I’m happy someone is seeing this aspect because of course we are trying to do the best possible but at the same time thinking about the future that we’ve got.

"We have very young players that can hopefully be important for the future of the club.

“It’s a very particular moment but the positive note is many of these young players have had the chance to play for the first time in the Premier League but also travel with the first team.

"This is something that is fundamental for young players."