PREM: Southampton v Watford preview

Southampton v Watford preview

Mark Hughes says he is not concerned for his future ahead of Southampton's home clash with Watford on Saturday.

There have been reports that Hughes could be fighting for his job if Saints lose this weekend.

Saints have won just once this season and sacked vice-chairman Les Reed this week, citing a need for a "new direction" in order to change poor results.

Asked about his position, Hughes said: "In the summer I was offered a three-year contract. Les would have had an impact on that decision, but not totally.

"The board had that decision and though Les is no longer around as a sounding board and a supportive guy in the background there were a lot of people in the background who supported the decision and so I don't think it has changed my position."

While Hughes' position could be under threat, Watford are set to offer manager Javi Gracia a new three-year deal.

Gracia will become the first boss at Watford to sign a contract extension since Malky Mackay in 2011.

Watford have begun this season in confident fashion and sit eighth after six wins from their opening 11 Premier League matches.

Southampton defender Wesley Hoedt faces a late test due to a foot infection. Mario Lemina is a slight doubt but should be available for selection.

Troy Deeney has returned to training and should be available for Watford after missing the last three games with a hamstring problem.

Tom Cleverley is back in full training but Etienne Capoue is suspended and Daryl Janmaat (knee) and Sebastian Prodl (hamstring) are both out.