Watford have confirmed they have activated the option to sign Algeria international Essaid Belkalem permanently.

Belkalem joined the Hornets last summer on loan from sister club Granada with a view to joining the Hertfordshire side permanently.

The Hornets yesterday confirmed to the Watford Observer that the option to sign him permanently was activated earlier this season. His contract runs until 2017.

The 25-year-old only made seven starts and three substitute appearances during his first season at Watford but he is part of Algeria's 23-man squad for this summer's World Cup in Brazil.