Watford defender William Troost-Ekong has welcomed news that his Nigerian teammate Maduka Okoye has joined the Hornets.

The centre back has played alongside the goalkeeper for the Super Eagles and, after playing his part in persuading the shot stopper to come to Vicarage Road, is looking forward to linking up with him next season, with Okoye spending the rest of this campaign on loan with Sparta Rotterdam.

“I’m delighted to see Maduka sign for Watford,” Troost-Ekong told the club website. “I’ve been speaking to him for a while about the different options he’s had, and I knew the club were speaking to him, so it’s great that it’s over the line.

“We’ve spoken about playing in England before, and I had mentioned Watford. He’s a very humble kid and he’s kept his cards close to his chest, but I did say if the chance came around he had to jump at it.

“He’s been part of the Nigeria team for the last two years or so now, and over that time he’s made some fantastic steps. He moved to Holland from Germany and it’s been incredible to see him take on the responsibility that comes with being a No.1.

“He’s a very reliable goalkeeper with a huge will to learn, and I think he’ll add a lot of strengths to the squad when he links up with us next year.”

Asked what Watford fans could expect from their new acquisition, Troost-Ekong said he has what it takes to be a success in English football.

“Among his main strengths is his size, and he is still very mobile and confident coming for balls in the box despite that,” he said.

“I think he’s definitely got the size and strength to be successful in the Premier League. He’s good on his line, he’s strong and he’s got a good kick, so he’s got everything he needs.

“He’ll be the first to say he’s still improving, but he’s very open to learning and he’s always looking out for advice, so I know he’s only going to improve going forward and I can’t wait to welcome him to London Colney.”