Watford manager Quique Flores has claimed that Manchester United number-one David de Gea is "probably the best goalkeeper in the world" ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting at Vicarage Road.

Flores gave De Gea his break in the Atletico Madrid first team seven seasons ago and said that he is looking forward to seeing his fellow Spaniard again tomorrow.

The Watford boss also revealed that De Gea bought him a gold pocket watch as a present during the duo's time in the Spanish capital.

"I gave David his debut. He was the third-choice keeper and after one month he was first choice," PA quotes Flores as saying.

"He was amazing. You just need to focus on the training and watch how he is taking the ball and handling it. For me he is probably the best goalkeeper in the world. I got a present after two years when we separated, it was a clock.

"The watch is an antique, golden on a chain. You wear it in your pocket. It is very English. I don't remember but I think there was an inscription. I still have it. I won't wear it, that's too much."

Watford last beat United in September 1986, losing nine in a row in all competitions since then.