GIANLUCA VIALLI has completed his second signing as Watford manager by recruiting left-sided midfielder Stephen Glass on a free transfer from Newcastle United.

Glass, who spent three years with the Geordie premiership side, is thought to have signed a two-year deal and will be seen by Hornets fans as a ready-made replacement for leading scorer Tommy Mooney and transfer-listed Peter Kennedy.

Glass, 25, who was personally contacted by chairman Sir Elton John prior to movinig to Vicarage Road, said; "Obviously the manager that has come here will attract a lot of good players and I think we have got a really good chance of going into the Premiership next year."

He added: "Luca Vialli made me feel wanted, but the fact Sir Elton John phoned me to encourage me to sign was the clincher in my decision to join Watford."

While Mooney played in a leftmidfield role, he also scored a number of goals, whereas the newcomer is more of a provider, although he can and does score goals.

Glass arrived at Newcastle in July 1998, when Kenny Dalglish paid Aberdeen £650,000, but the manager left soon after this.

Since then, Glass has made 31 starts for United, 25 substitute appearances and scored seven goals.

Described as a neat, ball-playing Scottish winger, it was thought at St James's Park that his 5ft 9in frame was too slight for the rigours of the Premiership. However, he played and scored in the final game of the season, against Aston Villa, and this prompted overtures from Newcastle to attempt to persaude him to sign a new contract.

Glass, who made five starts, nine substitute appearances and scored three goals last season, was determined to move in search of more regular firstteam football.

He is valued for neat skills and has a fine left foot, is able to cross a good ball and useful at free kicks.

Bradford City were interested but while Newcastle sources expected Glass to return to Scotland, the twin approach from Watford's new manager and chairman, is said to have tipped the balance in Watford's favour.

With Mooney and Clint Easton already gone, and both Peter Kennedy and David Perpetuini listed, Watford are short of leftsided players.

However, Vialli is keen to strengthen his forward options as well and is looking at a continental forward in addition to a top midfield player.

The new manager is looking for double cover in all positions and so he is expected to recruit full backs and another central defender.

June 29, 2001 15:34