Watford boss Javi Gracia was delighted to see playmaker Giorgi Chakvetadze back on the pitch in Tuesday’s draw with Preston.
The Georgia international had not made an appearance for seven months because of a foot problem.
But he was sent on as a substitute in the 74th minute at Vicarage Road – the first chance Gracia has had to watch him in competitive action since returning to the club as head coach.
“When I put Giorgi on the (team) list, I knew in this moment he can only help us 15, maybe 20 minutes, no more,” the Spaniard told BBC Three Counties Radio.
“He is not ready to play more, he needs time after coming from a long period out, he needs patience and work, the way he’s doing.
“Everyone knows he has high quality and I am really happy for him.”
Chakvetadze afterwards admitted he was “so excited” to be back.
“It was really tough and difficult mentally, but I knew it was a long injury and I’m happy to be back,” he told the club website.
Watford do not play again until Monday when they will be away to Birmingham City.
