Paul Robinson: Watford will 'always have a massive place in my heart'

Former left-back Paul Robinson was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame at the club’s end of season awards on Thursday and he spoke affectionately of his time at his hometown club after being clearly moved by the standing ovation he received.

Recalling his “great memories” of being given his first opportunity at Watford as a nine-year-old by Nigel Gibbs’ father, Dennis, Robinson continued: “I always wanted to play for this club and when I got that opportunity under Luther Blissett, Kenny Jackett and the good man himself Graham Taylor I knew it was something special.”

The 40-year-old made more than 250 appearances for the Hornets in all competitions but was sold to West Bromwich Albion in October 2003 for a cut price initial fee of £250,000 as Watford continued to struggle with the financial fall out from the collapse of ITV Digital and the Luca Vialli season.

“For me it was very difficult when I left,” Robinson admitted. “Not my choice but it was a difficult time for the club and for me it was important that I had to move otherwise the club was going to go into a very bad place.

“I had to make a decision, whether that was to stay or whether that was to help the club and I decided to help the club and help them survive.”

He continued: “Watford, you’ll always have a massive place in my heart and thank you very much for giving me the opportunity as a young lad to play football and to go on and play for clubs like West Brom, Leeds on loan, Bolton and to finish at Birmingham where I’m still coaching.

“To have the career that I’ve had I’ve been very lucky, I’ve had no injuries so I’m very grateful for that.”

Thanking his wife Caroline, his and her parents and Rita Taylor for their love, encouragement and support throughout his career, Robinson then addressed the current squad and said: “It’s been a great season so far but I’d really like you to bring the cup home for us as well.”