Watford have secured Academy goalkeeper Jack Bonham on a long-term professional contract after the shot-stopper celebrated his 17th birthday last week.

Bonham, who has represented Republic of Ireland at youth level, will be contracted to the Hornets until 2013 and has joined the likes of highly-rated trio Jonathan Bond, Gavin Massey and Sean Murray in committing his future to the club.

Watford manager Malky Mackay said: “We're delighted to have him on board; he's a good prospect and we see potential there.

“Jack has now committed himself to the football club and, under Alec Chamberlain's mentoring, we hope to see him progress and go from strength to strength.”