Boothroyd determined to keep his Watford King

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• More Premier League news club by club

The Watford striker has been linked with a £4million move to Fulham during the transfer window and Reading are also said to be interested in the former Gillingham man.

But Boothroyd said: "I do not want Marlon to go anywhere. He is the talisman of this club and he knows how much I want him to stay.

Double delight: Dan Shittu (No4) is mobbed as his two goals seal Watford's victory over Crystal Palace

"It would take an exceptional offer of silly money for us even to consider letting Marlon go. He is an important part of our plans for the future. We are looking to strengthen the squad this month, not weaken it."

Watford's goals against Palace came from defender Danny Shittu, who joins the Nigeria squad for the African Nations' Cup this week.

He got one in each half to secure his side's first win at Vicarage Road for nearly three months and a place in the fourth-round FA Cup draw.

The big defender has now scored seven times this season and his departure makes it even more important for Boothroyd to hang on to King.

Shittu said: "To be leaving Watford when the buzz is back is disappointing. The important thing against Palace was to show the fans we can win at home.

"I was pleased with my goals but disappointed as well because I should have got about four."

Palace manager Neil Warnock shrugged off his side's first defeat in 14 matches after fielding a young team.

He said: "I think we got more out of the game than Watford, if I'm honest. It's disappointing to lose after the run we've been on, but I'm not overly concerned.

"I never include cup defeats in any run so we're still unbeaten as far as I'm concerned.

"Our young boys never went under. It's hard at Watford."