Christian Kabasele surprises Watford fan with visit and shirt

Fabio Ponzini, 13, was eating with his family on Saturday evening when they heard a knock at the door.

Waiting on the doorstep was Watford star Christian Kabasele who had come to thank Fabio for his message to him and the rest of the squad ahead of the game against Millwall.

Hornets supporter Fabio and his family are neighbours of Kabasele and on Friday night, the Watford Grammar pupil posted a note through the defender’s door.

In it, Fabio wrote how Kabasele, along with Ismaila Sarr, was one of his favourite Watford players. He added that it had been great to see the Belgian centre-back on the pitch against Luton, and he wished the team the best of luck ahead of Saturday’s match.

On Saturday, Fabio and his family waved the Watford team off from The Grove hotel before their journey to Vicarage Road, and after a 1-0 win secured top flight football, the family went into town to take in some of the atmosphere after Watford fans gathered to celebrate promotion.

Fabio Ponzini in Watford town centre on Saturday evening after the Hornets won promotion back to the Premier League

If promotion wasn't enough to put a smile on Fabio's face, his day was about to get even better.

When Fabio and his family returned home, they received a knock at the door and it was Kabasele who had come to thank Fabio for his letter.

He also had a Watford shirt which Fabio asked if Kabasele could sign and he did. He even posed for a photo with one of his biggest fans.

Christian Kabasele pictured with Fabio

The signed Christian Kabasele shirt given to Fabio

Fabio’s mother, Nadia, said: "It was such an act of kindness from Christian and something we’ll never ever forget.

"We were having dinner and there was knock on the door and it was Kabasele. We were just in shock. He wanted to give us the Watford shirt which he signed and we have framed.

"Fabio is so happy that Watford have gone up and he is still on a high about Kabasele’s visit."