Returning to the Watford starting XI was a bittersweet experience for Christian Kabasele as Watford were beaten 2-1 by Manchester City.

Kabasele made his first start since the 4-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the start of October on Tuesday, a game in which he was sent off and conceded a penalty with 32 minutes on the clock.

While being involved against the Premier League leaders pleased Kabasele, he ultimately felt disappointed with the result.

“Everybody wants to play in these type of games and I tried to do my best to help the team. We are lucky that we have so many good players who can start every game,” Kabasele said.

“It is good to have that in a tough period of games and it is good to be back on the pitch but at the end of the day it is a defeat.”

Watford were second best on Tuesday night, but did manage to worry City when applying late pressure at Vicarage Road.

The Hornets will hope to take the positives from the display into Monday night’s meeting with Everton – a game the centre-back understands the importance of.

“We played against the best team, not only in England but in Europe in my opinion. We showed character and need to build on that,” the 27-year-old said.

“We know the Everton game is a special one since last season and want to make a good result for the fans on Monday.

“When you compete against Man City, you can’t go to Everton and be dominated and we will be confident.”