Tom Cleverley is aiming to back in action this autumn after having surgery on an Achilles problem.

The former Manchester United and Everton midfielder, who has not played since the end of January due to injury, had the planned operation to deal with what the Hornets have described as a long-standing complaint and he will now start rehabilitation work at the club’s London Colney training ground.

“This is something I’ve put up with during my career so it’s good to get it sorted,” the 28-year-old told the club’s website.

“I had been used to playing with pain in my ankle. Now that’s going to be a thing of the past. I’ll be fit and raring to win my place back once I’ve finished my rehab.”