Ashley Fletcher has explained his decision to leave Middlesbrough ahead of his move to Watford.

The striker has signed a five-year deal with the Hornets, although it is yet to have been formally announced by the club.

Reports in the Athletic today claim that an official unveiling could come as soon as next week.

Speaking to BBC Tees yesterday, Fletcher did not mention the Hornets but said he turned down the chance to stay at Middlesbrough after feeling "a little bit let down."

“I was offered a new deal around Christmas time," the striker said.

“As a 25-year-old Championship striker that’s getting to a dangerous time for the football club because from January I’m free to speak to other clubs. So I felt a little bit let down by the club.

“We’d spoken earlier in the season but agreed to wait until a little bit later to see what was happening because I was injured as well.

“So in a way I had a little bit of power in terms of what I do going forward with my career. I’m 25, English, had a decent season the year before, so it’s obvious you’re going to attract interest.

“The ball was in my court. I was injured at the time and I just said to the club I wanted to come back and get myself fit and we’d speak at the end of the season. I had that power in deciding where to go because I was on a free transfer.

“I did want to stay at Middlesbrough, but other things come along and you have to take a look at it as well.

“Ultimately, the decision was kind of taken out of my hands. But there are no regrets and no bad blood.”