Midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure views a failed loan move to Ligue 1 side Lorient as a positive, as he is now a key figure in Marco Silva's side.
The 24-year-old Frenchman had a difficult spell at Vicarage Road last season, following his move from Rennes in February 2016 and was initially on the fringes of the Watford squad.
For some time at least a temporary move back to France looked likely, but never materialised due to Watford and Lorient being unable to complete a deal before the closure of the summer transfer window last year.
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However, after being forced to remain in England, Doucoure went on to have a run a good form under former boss Walter Mazzari, and become a regular fixture in The Hornets' midfield.