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Javi Gracia has praised fringe duo Miguel Britos and Adalberto Penaranda for stepping up to the plate in the FA Cup win over Newcastle.
Neither Britos or Penaranda have been regulars for the Hornets in the Premier League this season but both came into the side for the 2-0 fourth-round victory at St James’ Park on Saturday as Gracia rung the changes.
Britos has appeared just once in the league while Penaranda has yet to be involved in the first team apart from in the FA Cup.
Both impressed in the victory over the Magpies, however, and Gracia was delighted with their input as they underlined their importance in the squad.
He said: “Miguel is a very important player for us. It’s true, in the last year he didn’t play a lot, but his experience, his quality, his character always is important, but not only him.
“Penaranda as well after a long time out of the play he suffered. Now he’s enjoying playing with the rest of the team and when he has the chance to play he showed his qualities.”
Watford will find out who they will face in the fifth round when the draw is made on Monday evening.
