Capoue will miss the game away to Everton on Monday because of suspension, much to the irritation of his club as they felt the red card he received against Leicester was a refereeing error

It’s just after lunch at Watford’s training ground and Étienne Capoue and Will Hughes are engaged in a game of pool where the verbal exchanges are as lively as the potting. “He’s the best player I’ve ever played with . . . at pool,” Hughes says with a smile.

Hughes emphasises his admiration for Capoue the footballer, such a force for Javi Gracia’s side, which is why the club have been fighting so hard against his controversial suspension for a challenge on Leicester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho.

Capoue appreciates Watford’s attempt to find him justice. “Watford are a very friendly club,” he says. “It’s a family, yes. It has a very good vibe here. When I signed from Tottenham [in 2015], my first feeling was that