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Javi Gracia says Watford are 'the new Leicester' after strong start

Etienne Capoue and Abdoulaye Doucoure during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Vicarage Road on September 2, 2018 in Watford, United Kingdom
Image: Watford beat Tottenham for their fourth consecutive win at the start of the Premier League season

Watford boss Javi Gracia sees similarities between his team and Leicester's title-winning side from the 2015-16 season.

Leicester caused the biggest upset in the Premier League era when they won the title as 5000-1 outsiders under Claudio Ranieri.

Watford are the surprise contenders this season, having won their opening four games of the campaign - a start which saw Gracia named Premier League Manager of the Month for August.

Javi Gracia during the Premier League match between Watford and Brighton & Hove Albion at Vicarage Road
Image: Javi Gracia was named Premier League Manager of the Month for August

"We have started so well in the Premier League that we can be considered the new Leicester," Gracia told The Sun.

"I am not scared of the comparison between Leicester and Watford. I am always going to live with the same naturalness after winning four games in a row and after losing four.

Watford players celebrate beating Spurs
Image: Watford have started the season with four consecutive victories

"It is possible to lead the table after four games, although it will be a lot more different after 25.

"Even if we played in Spain, it would be difficult. We have to enjoy and savour this moment because we have worked for it and earned it.

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"I am very excited with the atmosphere we have now within the club, the team and the supporters. It is great.

"Watford is a team that has finally secured and cemented a place in the Premier League. Before it was going up and down the whole time: now it is here to stay."

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