New Watford signing Josh McEachran expects to return to match fitness soon and confirmed he went off last night with a back spasm.

McEachran, who joined the Hornets from Chelsea on Friday, made his Watford debut against Norwich City last night but was forced off after 39 minutes with a back problem.

After the match, the 20-year-old told the Watford Observer: "I had a back spasm about two or three weeks ago and it cleared up but tonight I landed and twisted funny and it went again so hopefully it won't be too long (until he returns)."

McEachran spent pre-season with the Chelsea first team but last night was his first outing since he returned from a minor ankle injury last month.

He said: "My ankle is fine now. I get it strapped every game but I've had no problems since the injury so it is good."

"My fitness levels are maybe not properly where they should be in terms of being 100 per cent," McEachran added. "I could last 90 minutes but I will keep trying hard to push myself so I will become ready."

On the England Under-21 international's debut, Watford head coach and Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola said: "It was brief but I saw some interesting things. He was good with the ball and confident but there are some things we need to improve. But he is a player who can give us something good I’m sure."

There will be an interview with McEachran in this Friday's Watford Observer.