The Italian has not played since the Hornets' 1-0 defeat away to West Brom at the start of September, having picked up a knee issue.

(Image: Action Images)

Bove has been gearing up his return in recent weeks, with a view to returning at some point after the international break.

The 24-year-old recently returned to training and shared his delight at being one step closer to being back on the pitch in games for Watford with club media.

"It's the best feeling in the world being back with my teammates and having the possibility to feel the pitch again," he said.

"I worked a lot in these two months to get back as soon as possible. Now, I'm very, very happy to be back on the pitch and to have the possibility to help the team again to achieve our goals.

"It's something different to be able to go outside again. Watching from the gym, we have a fantastic gym where I could watch all of the training [sessions], but from behind, it's tough from inside.

"But for me, I have to train as hard as I can to get in the best shape as soon as possible, and the [aim] for the team is to win the games, but we have to [treat] every game as the most important one for us; it's vital."