Watford boss Sean Dyche believes the Hornets have secured an ‘exciting prospect’ in Fulham loanee Alex Kacaniklic.

The 20-year-old signed on a six-month youth loan on Monday and went straight into the side which secured a 2-0 victory over Millwall the following day.

Kacaniklic played a key role in the Hornets win; supplying the pass for Troy Deeney’s opener before striking a second-half shot which was only parried away by David Forde, to allow Joe Garner to score.

It was the former Liverpool midfielder’s first senior match and Dyche was happy with his performance.

The Hornets boss said: “Alex has come straight in and it was his first professional start which is a very tough thing to do. But I thought he played well and made a very good pass for the first goal.”

Dyche revealed after completing the transfer he had been following the youngster’s progress for six months.

He had also spoken to former Watford manager Ray Lewington and Billy McKinlay, who are both on Fulham’s coaching staff, before completing the deal.

“They both think highly of him,” Dyche said.

“He is an exciting prospect who needs first-team football and we will help him do that. He has talent and pace and in the games I have seen him play, he can also finish as well.

“He is young and still learning but capable of progressing here.”

Dyche was not the only person to have sought the advice of former Watford manager Lewington.

Speaking to the club’s website, Kacaniklic said: “Ray told me what I should expect there so I’ll be ready for that.

“I have only heard positive things about the club, from Ray and other people I’ve spoken to. I’m really excited about this move because I see it as a big chance to get some first-team football and experience.”