Watford midfielder Luke O'Nien is set to play for Sheffield United Under-21s for the second time today as he awaits a decision from the Hornets on whether his contract will be extended.

O'Nien is a first-year professional with the Golden Boys and his contract expires in the summer.

Head coach Beppe Sannino is a fan of the 19-year-old. In January the Italian said O'Nien was "strongly part of the club on and off the pitch" and added he "lives for Watford".

Sannino then achieved his "dream" of giving O'Nien his professional debut as an 88th-minute substitute against Barnsley on March 15.

But we understand Watford have yet to make a final decision on whether to give O'Nien a second professional contract.

The midfielder, who joined Watford at Under-9 level, played 90 minutes for Sheffield United Under-21s last Monday during their 4-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday.

And the player from Hemel Hempstead will again start for the Blades' Under-21s this afternoon, kick-off 1pm, against Coventry City at Nuneaton Town's ground.

O'Nien joined Ryman Premier side Wealdstone on loan on Thursday and is expected to return south for their game at home to Billericay Town tonight. He was an unused substitute for their 2-2 draw with Dulwich Hamlet on Saturday.

Watford refused to comment on O'Nien's future this morning but we understand the Hornets did give the player permission to play in United's Under-21 matches.

Read Sannino's comments on O'Nien from January here.

We understand Watford have made their decision about which scholars will be given professional contracts, read more here.