Warnock's men next face Manchester United at home, before the Boxing Day trip to Crystal Palace and clash at Leicester three days later.

"I don't mind losing away if we win every home match," Warnock said. "If we don't beat Man United next week we're in trouble.

"We've got to get some points away from home. It would be the best result of the season, if and when it (an away win) comes.

"(We have) two tough games coming up, Palace away and Leicester away, after next week. We've just got to be more positive and not as apprehensive."

Warnock questioned the appointment of Andrew Madley as referee after the loss at Vicarage Road.

Madley, 35, was taking charge of a second Premier League game and first of the season, while the experienced Andre Marriner was fourth official.

It was somewhat unfair, as there was no controversy of note.

Watford impressed, particularly Gerard Deulofeu, who scored a fine solo opener and Domingos Quina, who curled in his first Premier League goal after Jose Holebas had made it 2-0.

Quina had previously swapped Chelsea's academy for West Ham, before signing for Watford in August, and showed his quality.

"His present is good. His future will be much better," Watford boss Javi Gracia said.

Etienne Capoue is available following suspension for next week's match with West Ham, but Quina could retain his place against his former club.

Gracia challenged his players to play to the same level consistently, particularly Deulofeu, whose place in the starting line-up is not guaranteed.

"In different games we have different options," Gracia added.

"(Against Cardiff) we thought it would be a good game for him, because to overcome this tight marking, we need that mobility, to play, pass and move, to find the spaces. Gerard is good doing that.

"We'll see for the next game."

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