Two regulars in Watford’s Under-21 team have signed new contracts with the club.

Forward Michael Adu-Poku has agreed a new three-year deal, with the option of an additional two years, while defender James Clarridge has put pen to paper on a new three-year contract with the Hornets, with the option of an additional 12 months.

Adu-Poku will spend the rest of this season on loan at National League side Solihull Moors, who are currently 12th in the National League having lost last season's play-off final on penalties. 

Adu-Poku, 19, made his first-team debut in the FA Cup third round clash away to Reading in January 2023, and then spent the latter stages of 2023/24 with National League South outfit Maidstone United, where he made six appearances.

In the summer Adu-Poku featured in some first-team friendlies, and he has continued to train with the first-team and play for the Under-21s.

He provided an assist for fellow Academy player Amin Nabizada in the 3-2 pre-season win at Hibernian.

Having risen through the Academy since joining in 2018, Adu-Poku's league debut came in the 2022/23 season when he came off the bench in the home draw against Rotherham United.

Adu-Poku could feature for Solihull when they host National League leaders Barnet on Saturday.

Clarridge also played for Tom Cleverley’s senior team in summer friendlies, and has been a fixture for the Under-21s so far this season, while continuing to train with the first team.

He was part of the Under-21 team beaten 2-0 at home by Cardiff on Thursday evening, a game which saw them finish with nine men as well as having goalkeeping coach Gary Phillips sent off.

The defender joined Watford in February 2024 from Nottingham Forest, having spent more than 12 years with the Reds.

He has also represented England at Under-15 and Under-17 level.