Watford retain an interest in signing defender Liam Moore on loan but Leicester City will still not allow the defender to leave despite being fifth choice.

The Golden Boys have been trying to sign Moore on loan since late last year but Leicester manager Nigel Pearson refuses to let the 22-year-old depart.

With fellow centre back Robert Huth joining Leicester on loan in January and defender Matthew Upson returning from injury, Moore has slipped further down the pecking order at the King Power Stadium, having started their first nine Premier League games this season.

Recent injuries and a lack of game time for both Huth and Upson are believed to be a factor in Moore not being allowed to leave despite making just one appearance since January 3.

Moore, who is 6ft 1ins and can play at centre back or right back, needs to secure regular football if he is to cement his place in the England Under-21 squad for this summer's European Championship.

Brentford are also understood to be keen on signing Moore on loan.