Watford boss Claudio Ranieri wants to see the best version of Danny Rose in the coming weeks and months.

The left back has played nine times for the club since joining in the summer on a free transfer.

The 31-year-old was not at his best during their loss to Manchester City last time around in the Premier League.

"Of course I am very confident with him, but he has to improve more," said Ranieri on Rose.

"I remember Danny when he played at Tottenham and the national team - I need this Danny.

"He is a champion, he knows very well he is not ready enough, he has to push more.

"I see him during the training session to be pushing and always stay working hard. I hope he can achieve his high level like before.

"It is more fitness, because that was down when he came, he has improved a lot, now he needs to improve more. It is very difficult to say how long it will take."