Tom Cleverley believes Mattie Pollock could be Watford captain in the future after the defender signed a new contract at Vicarage Road.

The 23-year-old, who has been one of the Hornets’ most consistent performers this season, has agreed a deal until 2029, with the club having an option of a further year.

“He’s a leader, he’s got a good sense of humour and he’s got great energy,” the head coach said of the player who has started every Championship game this season. “He’s a well-liked character.

“What’s impressed us the most as staff is how he’s improved on the ball.

“He’s really comfortable in possession now and that’s why he’s catapulted from someone on the fringes to consistently in the team.

“He got thrust in at Millwall two years ago and maybe it was a bit too soon, but he’s someone whose values as a person I’ve respected.

“He’s worked hard, and we’ve believed in him - he deserves this new deal.”

“The more of that type you can have, the more chance of success you will have, and he’s certainly future captain material for this football club.”

Pollock follows Giorgi Chakvetadze and Kwadwo Baah in signing new deals at Vicarage Road this season, with Cleverley saying he will always back those who he believes should be rewarded with new contracts.

“All the lads really look to Mattie as a point of reference or a point of good humour when things are a little bit low,” the head coach said.

“He’s an all-round well-liked guy among staff, players and supporters and we’re happy to tie him down to this new contract.

“I’ll always put my two pence in for the lads who I feel are deserving of contracts.

“I can offer my opinion on whether I think he has the attitude to fulfil his potential, and I think with Mattie that he certainly does.”

After first joining the club from Grimsby Town in July 2021, Pollock spent time on loan at Cheltenham Town and Aberdeen before really breaking through at Vicarage Road this season.