Six members of Watford’s title-winning Under-18 squad have signed their first professional deals at Vicarage Road.

The Hornets have confirmed that second-year scholars Andrew Eleftheriou, Nathan Gartside, Brandon Mason, Rhyle Ovenden, Charlie Rowan and Connor Stevens have all put pen to paper on their contracts and will now look to continue their development with the Under-21 squad next season.

Goalkeeper Gartside and defender Rowan have signed two-year deals, while the other four players have signed one-year contracts. However, there is a further one-year option in the case of all six.

Head of academy Chris McGuane told the club website: “It’s fantastic that they’ve been successful in securing professional contracts with the club for next season.

“The club has demonstrated our belief in the potential of these young players, and it’s now up to them to take this opportunity that’s been given to them.”

Fellow Academy scholars Ashley Charles and David Sesay also signed professional deals earlier this month in the wake of the Hornets’ Professional Development League Two South title-winning campaign.