Watford fans were left wondering about midfielder Edo Kayembe's absence during the Easter fixtures, and manager Ed Still has provided a unique and celebratory explanation. Kayembe was busy making history with the DR Congo national team, helping secure their dramatic World Cup qualification with a 1-0 playoff victory over Jamaica.

The subsequent celebrations and official obligations in his home country meant Kayembe missed Watford's matches against QPR and Charlton. Still confirmed the midfielder is now back with the squad, ready to contribute after his monumental international achievement. "We're really happy for him and proud that he'll be at the World Cup," Still said, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of missing a key player during a crucial Championship run-in.

This situation highlights the intense schedule modern footballers navigate, balancing club duties with the pinnacle of international sport. Kayembe wasn't alone; clubs across Europe, including West Ham with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, faced similar delays with their Congolese internationals.

In other team news, there's a boost for the Hornets' defensive options as James Abankwah is available for selection ahead of Saturday's trip to Oxford United. Furthermore, midfielder Othmane Maamma has returned to training after a lengthy thigh injury, offering more depth as Watford, currently 10th, look to close a nine-point gap to the playoff spots with just five games remaining.