Gavin Massey revealed he was never interested in a move to Liverpool, insisting Watford was the ideal club to “learn my trade”.

The 17-year-old was linked with a switch to the Premier League club before signing a two-year deal in May, days after making his Hornets debut.

Despite knowing about Liverpool’s interest, Massey stated he didn't consider a move away from Vicarage Road and highlighted the careers of Aston Villa winger Ashley Young and Hornets full back Lee Hodson as a reason why.

“I heard the week I signed my pro-deal that Liverpool were interested in me but I never thought about moving, I’ve been at Watford all my life and I want to learn my trade here,” Massey said.

“If you look at Ashley, he stuck at it, did really well and got a big move. It just proves if you stay at Watford and work hard you’ll get your opportunity.

“Looking at Lee Hodson, he played almost every game last season and it shows if the gaffer likes you and trusts you you’ll get the chance. Those two players are players I look up to.

“I also quite like staying at home so I didn’t want a move to Liverpool and to a different environment. I’m quite happy at Watford.”

Interest from one of Europe’s biggest clubs came just months after he began playing reserve team football.

The teenager scored three goals in seven appearances for the reserves, adding to his impressive performances for the youth team that reached the quarter finals of the FA Youth Cup in February.

Massey made his first team debut in Watford’s 4-0 defeat of Coventry in the final game of last season, replacing Danny Graham in the 85th minute.

“I found it random that I got the call-up for my debut,” he admitted. “I signed my pro contract that same week so the gaffer rung me up and said he would like me to travel with the squad and because we were already safe from relegation there was more of a chance of me coming on.

“I was only just getting into reserve team football so it was quite random but definitely a good thing.

“It was a good year for the academy. Beating Liverpool in the fifth round was my best memory, it was a great run.”

Massey was part of the initial group of players which joined the Harefield Academy in 2007 and he is currently finishing his studies at the specialist sports school.

The youngster paid tribute to the scheme and says there is a lot of young talent that Watford supporters should look out for.

“It’s hard because they mix education with football and there are long days but to play football during the day benefits you a lot,” he said.

“Youngsters want to play football every day of their lives and we get that chance at Harefield but you can’t forget your school work.

“Everyone knows about Sean Murray. I’d say Jonathan Bond, Chez Isaac and Adam Thompson are among those ones to look out for.

“Being at Watford's academy is probably the best thing for someone who wants to be a footballer.”

Despite experiencing the heights of first-team football, Massey is keeping his feet firmly grounded this season.

“I’ve travelled with the squad for three games now so my aim is to play in the reserves on a regular basis and try and get on the bench for the first team a couple of times.

“I’m still young, I have got a lot to learn and that’s my aim this year.”