Watford group dynamic will help youngsters - Selvik

Egil Selvik has won four caps for Norway

Goalkeeper Egil Selvik says Watford's young team must "grow up fast" after starting the new season with defeat at promoted Charlton Athletic.

The Hornets were set pick up a point in Paulo Pezzolano's first league game in charge when Harvey Knibbs' added-time goal gave the home side victory.

Watford only managed one shot on target during the game despite having the lion's share of possession at The Valley.

"Losing the game at the very end is always painful - but it's also an opportunity to learn," Selvik told BBC Three Counties Radio.

"On the goal, we need to grow up fast. At 90 minutes plus, we have to be smart and use these situations to grow up and be more cynical."

Selvik has established himself as Watford's first-choice keeper since arriving at Vicarage Road during the January transfer window.

Saturday's appearance was his 17th for the club but Knibbs' sidefoot strike meant he missed out on a seventh clean sheet.

"I am happy to contribute (some saves), that's my job, and to help the young lads out there to perform," the 28-year-old said.

"It's up to all the older players to help the younger ones to learn in these phases and be able to give them leeway to step up and take charge.

"It's a group dynamic. We can't complain that we have some players who may be young and inexperienced, we have to bring everyone along for the ride."

He added: "We deserved a point and it stings a bit more when you play a good match and fighting for the clean sheet and that gets ripped away in the dying minutes."

"It's tough, but as a goalkeeper, you have to swallow those and stay positive."

Watford are at home to Norwich City in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday and then take on QPR at Vicarage Road in their next Championship game on Saturday.