Watford FC paid tribute to a young fan who died of cancer ahead of their game against Middlesbrough on Saturday (October 5) - with several players dedicating the win to him.

Before the Championship fixture a minute's applause was held for Zach Barnes, 12, who recently passed away after a battle with the disease.

Stadium announcer Tim Coombs read out a moving tribute from his family before all four corners of Vicarage Road came together to remember the young fan.

Watford Observer reporter Andrew French said: "Before the applause, a tribute by his parents was read out and the whole stadium was silent. It was one of the most moving things I've experienced in a football ground."

Tom Cleverley's side won 2-1 and after the match, a number of players took to social media to pay tribute.

Moussa Sissoko wrote: "This game was for you Zach and your whole family. You will forever remain in our hearts. Big love, MS."

There were also tributes from Ryan Porteous and Mattie Pollock, with the latter writing that the result was "a win for Zach and his family".

Cleverley also mentioned Zach after the match, describing Saturday as an "emotional day".

Watford's win came after goals from Edo Kayembe and Kwadwo Baah saw them come from behind to see off Michael Carrick's side and head into the international break with a win.