Watford striker Troy Deeney has invited six former prison mates of his to watch him achieve the peak of his rehabilitation in Saturday's glamour Premier League clash against Manchester United.

The 27-year-old served three months in jail in 2012 following a violent brawl in his home town of Birmingham which left four students injured.

But during his time behind bars he was adamant that he would rebuild his life and career.

"I've got people coming, my cellmates, six friends," said Deeney, who will captain Watford at Vicarage Road on Saturday.

"I told them it'd all come true -- I do my best work when people doubt me the most.

"I knew what I was going to do (in succeeding as a professional footballer). I have (proved people wrong) all my life. When people write me off that's when I perform my best."

Deeney played a key role in Watford's promotion to the Premier League, scoring 21 goals in the second-tier Championship last season.