With teenagers and players in their early 20s throughout the starting XI and on the bench for Tuesday’s Carabao Cup victory, the abundance of potential within the squad was there for all to see.

Whether it was homegrown talent like Leo Ramirez-Espain, new signings such as Rocco Vata or players who have been at the club for a while like Kwadwo Baah, exciting youth was the order of the evening.

Head coach Tom Cleverley said after the game that what fans saw at Vicarage Road on Tuesday were the things he sees from the youngsters every day in training – but he also urged supporters to be patient and cautious.

“Don’t expect anything too soon,” the Watford boss warned.

“What we have got is exciting potential, and it’s potential that us as a staff need to develop and work with.

“But don’t be thinking they’re all going to start next week or Baah is going to score every game.

“It’s all part of a process, and I was brought up that way so that not too much pressure is put on youngsters.

“But of course, as a fanbase, you have the right to get a bit excited by some of the potential we have in the building.”

Cleverley talked in a bit more detail about some of the rising stars that made their debuts on Tuesday.

“Rocco Vata has natural talent and we just need to work with what he does out of possession. Mamadou Doumbia is another one, and then Leo Ramirez-Espain is probably the player I’ve worked with the longest as he was part of my Under-18s.

“He’s a very intelligent footballer and perfect for what we wanted the other night, someone who could keep the ball and maintain the rhythm of our game.

“It feels like Baah has been here a long and it was surprising to see that was his debut.

“He’s an explosive player, and that kind of explosive pace kills teams at this level.

“He’s also got really good physical attributes and is another we feel, as a staff, we can identify where he can improve.”