Etienne Capoue: Watford can improve even further if Quique Sanchez Flores stays at Vicarage Road

Moving forward: Capoue has tipped Watford to improve next season
Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Sam Long23 April 2016

Etienne Capoue insists Watford are capable of improving even further next season if his 'father figure' Quique Sanchez Flores stays at Vicarage Road.

Flores' position is reportedly under threat ahead of Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace with club owner Gino Pozzo believed to be considering a managerial change.

The Hornets have already secured their Premier League status but their form has dipped in recent months and just three wins have been secured in 2016.

However, Capoue, who arrived at Watford from Tottenham for a club-record fee last summer, is adamant Flores can take the team forward if he is given a chance to do so.

"Can the team improve? Of course, because it's our first season. We are a new team in the Premier League.

"We expected to have a good year but we have had a very good one with a lot of new players.

"Now he knows everyone and new players will come in next season to reach another step in the Premier League, so why not?

"[His future] is none of my business, I just do my job. But he has had a very good season and he's a good manager," declared Capoue.

The French midfielder was frozen out at White Hart Lane before joining Watford and he has flourished under Flores' guidance.

Capoue has formed a close bond with his manager and cites the Spanish coach as a key reason behind his impressive performances this season.

"We have a special relationship. It's more human than just talking about football.

"That's what helped to push me on. He's a human being and understands me and I understand him. It's a simple relationship.

"We talk about anything outside football. We try to know each other and what we like. It's like a dad and son, or a big brother and small brother.

"We have the same relationship," said the midfielder.

Capoue has endured cup heartbreak twice while playing for Toulouse in his home land and is determined to buck the trend against Alan Pardew's side.

"It's my third semi-final after two in France. I lost twice so I hope the third isn't the same.

"I played in the national team in a tough qualifier, but this is one of the most important games of my career," he added.

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