Watford youngster on trial in Scotland (From Watford Observer)

Republic of Ireland Under-19 captain Rob Kiernan on trial in Scotland with Kilmarnock

4:47pm Thursday 28th January 2010 in Local Sport By Frank Smith, Deputy Group Sports Editor

Watford youngster Rob Kiernan has joined Scottish Premier League side Kilmarnock on trial this week with a view to a possible loan move.

Kiernan, who is Republic of Ireland Under-19s captain, is highly thought of and Watford are keen for him to gain first team experience.

Kilmarnock manager Jimmy Calderwood said: "I've got a young lad in at the moment from Watford who is a centre-half. He is going to be with us for a couple of days and we will have a look at him. He did really well in training [today]."

The 19-year-old, who made his debut against Crystal Palace last January, only has six months of his current deal left but the Hornets have the option of extending it by another year, which they are certain to do.

Last week, Watford boss Malky Mackay said: “Rob is a young model professional. He is captain of the Republic of Ireland Under-19s and we are really happy with his development.

“He is really passionate about football and especially over the last couple of months, his level of training has gone up again.

“It is a new position for him as Sean [Dyche] put him back into that position a year ago so for the last year he has been learning central defence, but we are looking to get him out on loan and want him to gain experience at a professional level.”

Last week Kiernan was linked with Premier League clubs Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham.