Watford midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah has described the knee injury he suffered in September as "very difficult to take".

The 23-year-old, who has been out since September, underwent surgery on the issue and is still working his way back to full fitness.

The midfielder's expected return date is still unclear, but the England international, who was called up to Gareth Southgate's England setup before his injury, is optimistic about getting back on the pitch.

"It was very difficult to take," Chalobah told Sky Sports News. "I was pretty upset when I found out how serious the injury was and how long I would be out, but an injury can never really come at the right time in football.

"Things happen and you just have to move on. I'm working as hard as I can to get myself back fit and playing again.

"It has been tough mentally for me. Luckily I've got a really strong family base and people around me to help keep me occupied."

Chalobah signed for the Hornets from Chelsea in a five-year deal last summer, and played five Premier League games before suffering injury.