Watford midfielder Sean Murray has joined League One side Wigan Athletic on a 28-day loan deal as he continues his recovery from injury.

The 21-year-old underwent knee surgery in January after tearing his lateral collateral ligament and damaging his hamstring in training.

His recovery lasted six months with Murray spending the majority of the summer continuing his rehabilitation at Watford’s London Colney training ground.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international has undertaken pre-season training with the Hornets’ first-team and has featured from the bench in several of the club’s friendlies.

But his chances of gaining regular first-team football with the Hornets this season are slim. A short-term move to the DW Stadium should allow him the opportunity to improve his fitness and continue his recovery. 

Wigan boss Gary Caldwell told the Latics website: “Sean’s here for a month initially, then we’ll reassess the situation, as with all the loan signings.

“He is someone we know all about from our scouting system, has good first team experience for his age and will add good competition to the squad.” 

With midfielders Don Cowie and Tim Chow both likely to miss Wigan’s season opener with Coventry City on Saturday, Murray could be thrust straight into the first-team fold. 

Murray made his debut for the Golden Boys against Queens Park Rangers in 2011. He has gone on to make 84 appearances for the Hornets in all competitions, scoring 14 goals.

The Watford Observer spoke to Murray at length during Watford's pre-season tour of Germany. You can read our interview here.