On a day when Vakoun Bayo took the matchball home and collected countless slaps on the back, it would be easy to overlook the huge contribution of other Watford players in the 6-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday.

Tom Cleverley was keen to shine a light on those who also played a significant part in an unforgettable away day.

"Tom Ince was excellent," he said.

"I know I keep banging on about his intelligence but he is the player we have been missing in some of our inconsistent days.

"He didn't play at Preston, he didn't play at Norwich and he didn't play at Luton, so that's my fault.

"We look a better football team with him in the side at the minute."

Debutant Pierre Dwomoh caught the eye in his first Championship appearance in a midfield that looked solid and classy even without two regular starters.

"You don't want to take away from the performances of Bayo and Ince today, but I thought Dwomoh's performance was very mature," said Cleverley.

"He's fantastic out of possession with his pressing and tenacity, and he showed real composure in tight spaces with the ball.

"It couldn't have been a better league debut for him and I'm pleased because he trains really well every day."

The switch to a different formation meant Watford may well have caught Wednesday by surprise.

"It gives us a different dimension and makes us difficult to prepare for," said Cleverley.

"There is no doubt that shape gets Baah in his best position and right now he's the most dynamic and explosive winger in the league.

"It's important he doesn't get carried away now and he keeps his feet on the ground, and continues to work hard. A big part of his success this season has been his attitude."

Of course, Cleverley also spoke warmly of his four-goal striker.

"I said at half-time that Bayo was having a good game and that he looked bright," said the Watford boss.

"He was threatening them in behind, his hold-up play was good and his work out of possession was good.

"So I was pleased with him in the first half, but in the second half he was outstanding.

"He was really, really clinical and if there was anything we could say that Bayo needs to add to his game then it's that.

"His all-round game is fantastic and I'm really pleased he's added goals to it today."