Watford have confirmed popular midfielder Cristian Battocchio has joined Serie B side Virtus Entella on a season-long loan.

We reported yesterday that the 22-year-old, who has not been named in any Hornets squad this season, was set to depart Vicarage Road.

Battocchio, who was born in Argentina but plays for Italy Under-21s, has made 66 appearances for Watford, 43 of which were starts.

He posted on social media website Twitter yesterday: “Thank you very much #WatfordFC. Two years fantastic! Thanks!”