Crystal Palace 2-1 Watford: Quique Sanchez Flores unconcerned by reports over future

Watford manager Quique Sanchez Flores has dismissed speculation regarding his future at Vicarage Road after defeat to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley. Connor Wickham's second half header helped the Eagles book a clash with Manchester United; in a repeat of the 1990 final between the two sides.

Yannick Bolasie nodded Palace into an early lead before Troy Deeney equalised with a neat header 10 minutes after the break. Wickham converted from Papa Souare's cross to give Alan Pardew's side the lead for a second time and though Scott Dann avoided being sent off, Palace edged into May's final.

The build-up to the semi-final had been dominated by speculation over Flores' future at Watford. The Daily Mirror understands owner Gino Pozzo is considering making the Spaniard the seventh sacking of his four years at the helm, but Flores remains unconcerned by the reports.

"I have not understood what has happened this week," said the 51-year-old, who was appointed last summer and has secured Watford's top flight status. "You think it is time to talk about the coach when you are playing a semi-final? I know what I have told my club and what people have told me. I am a little bit sad in the week because I didn't understand why people was talking about me. When people should be happy I don't know why people talk in this way. I understand these thing. It is not necessary.

"I don't think I am undervalued. if someone need reasons to be happy, and they are not happy for me that is a disappointment. Wee are happy in the squad, me and everyone is happy. The feeling is Watford is safe and that is very important. We do not have reasons to talk about me. If the club want to talk to me I am open but we will see but it not necessary to talk about me.

"I have an idea about what is a good season for Watford but I don't want to justify. You want to enjoy this occasion. The owner was working really well since the last three years. It is working really well, we discuss a lot of things during the season. I don't have anything to talk about with the owner."