From Troy Deeney to Tommy Barnett, Cliff Holton to Ross Jenkins, Watford have been blessed with some great goalscorers but one man remains above all others.

No player has netted more league and cup goals – 186 – and made more appearances – 503 – than Luther Blissett in Hornets’ history, assuring him of a very special place in the affections of the town which continues to this day with his tireless community work.

Having made his debut as a substitute in a 1-0 win over Barnsley in April 1976, an attendance of 4,536 were at Vicarage Road two days week later to see the young striker score on his first start in a 2-1 victory over Swansea City to help Watford finish eighth in Division Four.

Six league goals followed in 37 appearances in the next two seasons, but it was the 1978/79 campaign that saw Blissett begin his rise to prominence as he scored 21 times to help fire Graham Taylor’s side to promotion from Division Three.

Watford Observer: The young Hornets striker fires home.The young Hornets striker fires home. (Image: Watford Observer)

The player most closely associated with the Hornets’ rise under Taylor, Blissett would go on to become Watford’s first senior England international and the top scorer in his first season in the top flight as Watford finished second in Division One, later returning to the club after a season at AC Milan.

Watford Observer: All smiles outside the club shop.All smiles outside the club shop. (Image: Watford Observer)

It is impossible to do justice to Blissett’s playing career at Vicarage Road in only 12 pictures, but here are a dozen images from our archive you may not have seen for many years to enjoy again.

Watford Observer: Blissett celebrates in front of the jubilant Hornets' fans.Blissett celebrates in front of the jubilant Hornets' fans. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The referee pays close attention as Blissett takes a penalty.The referee pays close attention as Blissett takes a penalty. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Blissett became Watford's first full England international.Blissett became Watford's first full England international. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: 'Penalty, ref!''Penalty, ref!' (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The Watford striker lets fly against Spurs.The Watford striker lets fly against Spurs. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: A relaxing moment with teammates.A relaxing moment with teammates. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: John Barnes is already celebrating in the background.John Barnes is already celebrating in the background. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Blissett athletically hooks the ball into the net.Blissett athletically hooks the ball into the net. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Blissett celebrates one of his 186 Watford goals.Blissett celebrates one of his 186 Watford goals. (Image: Watford Observer)