Watford have signed goalkeeper Charlie Bannister on a one-year contract.

The 19-year-old has joined from Aston Villa after featuring as a trialist during pre-season. He will be part of Harry Kewell's Under-23 squad. 

Watford will compete in the Under-23 Professional Development League this season.

The Under-21 Professional Development League, which the side were part of last season, has been realigned with the newly-formed Premier League 2, which means Kewell's team will be in the Under-23 age category.

Players born on or after January, 1993 will be eligible and clubs can also nominate three over age outfield players and one older goalkeeper for games.

The Under-23s start their season at Birmingham City next Monday before hosting Huddersfield Town the following week.

Watford Under-18s begin their league season at home to Crewe Alexandra this Saturday afternoon.