EDDIE Howe has hinted tomorrow’s duel with Watford will come too early for Charlie Daniels.

The experienced full-back has not featured for Cherries since the end of August due to a knee problem.

However, he played 90 minutes of Cherries under-21s’ 1-1 draw with AFC Wimbledon in the Central League Cup on Tuesday. Daniels was named in a strong starting XI which also included the likes of Jack Simpson, Tyrone Mings and Marc Pugh.

Discussing Daniels’ progress, boss Howe told the Daily Echo: “I’d say he’s very close to being 100 per cent fit. The two weeks he has to come before our next game will be ideal for him to get that last bit up to scratch.

“I don’t think he is feeling his injury any more. There was a period where he was training and still aware of something.

“I think that’s gone so that’s the main thing.”

Daniels has made 109 top-flight appearances for Howe’s men, with only Steve Cook featuring on more occasions.

The former Leyton Orient man has seen competition increase for a starting spot this season, with Spanish full-back Diego Rico joining from La Liga outfit Leganes in the summer.

Meanwhile, Watford winger Gerard Deulofeu is ready to make a first appearance of the season against Cherries, according to Hornets boss Javi Gracia.

The former Everton and Barcelona ace has not featured because of a foot injury and then a hip problem but returned to full training last week.

Stefano Okaka, Miguel Britos and Sebastian Prodl will also be in contention again to boost the Watford’s options.

"All of them have a chance," said Gracia.

"We have to know they are not in the best condition because maybe they need more training sessions to be better but I think they can help us in the next game. We'll see."

Gracia is confident Deulofeu can provide another dimension to the frontline.

"He can play in different positions. If we keep the same shape he can play as a winger on both sides and as a striker as well," he said.

"If we change the shape, to 4-3-3 for example, then he can play in the three positions as well."

Defender Marc Navarro, though, has picked up a minor problem following his debut in the 2-0 defeat at Arsenal, so misses out as Watford seek to end a winless run of four matches.

"He felt a little bit of pain and I think he will not be available for the next game but the rest of them (previously injured players) are training with the team," said Gracia.

After their dip following an impressive start, Watford find themselves in sixth place but could climb back into the top four with a win over Cherries.

Gracia will continue to set the bar high for the Hertfordshire club.

"For me, Watford is the best – not the best of the rest. We will try to be the best of all and win all the games we play in," he said.

"At the end of the season we will see where we are."