Boothroyd has moved the captain's armband between DeMerit, Danny Shittu and Richard Lee before finally settling with midfield John Eustace for the remainder of the season.

DeMerit made his first start for the Hornets since last month's Hull defeat in their 1-0 defeat to relegated Scunthorpe on Saturday.

Despite being pleased to be back involved, DeMerit revealed the captaincy issue has caused tension between himself and Aidy Boothroyd.

He told the Watford Observer: "I do not think it has ironed itself out yet but that is between me and the manager."