Hornets boss Beppe Sannino says Almen Abdi is in contention for a place in Watford’s squad for tomorrow’s FA Cup third round replay against Bristol City.

The Swiss midfielder has made just six appearances for the Golden Boys this season but hasn’t featured since the end of August after suffering with Plantar Fasciitis.

The nature of the injury has meant the Hornets have been unable to put a timeframe on Abdi’s return but the 27-year-old could feature against the Robins according to Sannino.

The Watford head coach said: “I am considering Abdi who may take a little part. I am not sure yet but he is in contention.”

He continued: “Last season the Watford fans chose Abdi as the best player of the season. He was very important last season and we are waiting for him.

"We would like to have him back as soon as possible because he can give us quality and experience. So we will see if he could be on the bench tomorrow. We have to see how he reacts to the training sessions."

Marco Cesarini, the Hornets’ head of medical, stressed Abdi is in a “transitional period” but said there were several positives.

However, he added: “We have to be careful and take it step by step.”

Three players are unable to feature against the Robins. Arsenal loanee Hector Bellerin is ineligible while Alexander Merkel, who is suspended, and Mathias Ranegie were not register for the first tie and are unable to play in the replay.

Ikechi Anya has recovered from the groin strain that has ruled him out for the past two weeks and Daniel Pudil and Davide Faraoni are also fully fit.

Jonathan Bond has shaken off an illness which kept him out of the weekend defeat to Reading but Marco Cassetti will be absent with a knee problem and Sannino said: “He has an assessment tomorrow but we are confident he will not be out long term.

"He has a heavy contusion on his knee and there is an issue with the joint.”

Essaid Belkalem (ankle) and Tommie Hoban (ankle) are both long-term absentees but the Academy graduate is closing in on a return to action and could feature in the Under-21 Premier League Cup match against Reading on Thursday.