Watford could be boosted by the return of five players for Saturday's Championship clash at Leeds United with Almen Abdi potentially ready to take a place on the bench.

Abdi, Gabriele Angella, Ikechi Anya, Manuel Almunia and Josh McEachran could all come back as Watford look to end a winless run of seven league matches.

Abdi has been out with a foot problem since the end of August but Zola revealed yesterday the influential midfielder is back in traning.

“Abdi trained with me today (Thursday) and he will train with me tomorrow (Friday) and he has looked very good so I am pleased about that,” Zola said.

“He might be available [against Leeds], perhaps not to start, but he might available to be on the bench.”

Manuel Almunia and Josh McEachran have fully recovered from illness and are also available for selection.

Jonathan Bond has impressed in Almunia's absence and Zola praised the youngster's performances.

"Almunia is much better so I am confident I might have him back," he said. "Jonathan Bond has been playing well so I am pleased with that but I knew Jonathan is someone we can rely on. 

"Manuel is okay, he is better and I am sure he wants to be back in the team."

Gabriele Angella and Ikechi Anya could also return after recovering from thigh and calf injuries respectively. Both have trained this week.

Lloyd Doyley (hamstring), Essaid Belkalem (ankle) and Tommie Hoban (ankle) are all however ruled out.