Dionisi hails

Dionisi is totally reliant on the pair with no other senior centre-backs available, and though he expects signings in that position there are currently no guarantees that a new recruit would start immediately.

More: WATCH: Immediate reaction to Wrexham 1-1 Watford

The Italian thought Keben was man of the match against Southampton last week, and a question about Pollock's excellent captaincy prompted more praise for the pair of them on Saturday.

Dionisi said: "Mattie Pollock, Kevin Keben: fantastic.

"Probably more centre-backs will arrive, which is normal, because we have two and James Clarridge.

"But Mattie and Kevin played very well. I'm very happy."

Dionisi added that credit for the mentality of the team can be attributed to the pair, who have been part of a group of players working with the coach since June 21.

Nothing but passion from the boss today 🫡🗣️ pic.twitter.com/89bndTCi30

— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) August 22, 2026

A newer player, Federico Ravaglia, also relieved pressure on his defence with a series of punches and claims from set-pieces, even earning praise from home fans around the press box after clearing from under the nose of Kieffer Moore in the second half.

Dionisi is pleased with his stopper's start to life in England.

He said: "Federico was important in the second half in the last match and today the same.

"When the ball arrived in the box, Federico attacked the ball, which is important for my team in the defensive phase."

More: Dionisi 'very, very happy' with Watford display at Wrexham

The head coach was also positive about Albert Eames' performance, the full-back having been called upon as a first-half sub when Omar Traore was substituted with what appeared to be concussion.

He said: "Today was very difficult because Southampton played short balls, but Wrexham play short and long balls.

"With the longer balls, the defensive phase against Wrexham is not easy for us.

"The substitution with another young boy, Albert Eames, I'm happy with. Amin Nabizada also played from the start.

"It's important for us to arrive to this result."