Midfielder Adian Manning has signed his first pro contract with Watford after an outstanding 2021/22 season.

The 18-year-old hit a memorable winner in the FA Youth Cup against Cardiff, progressed into the Under-23s and ended up training with the first team.

On Saturday, he started in midfield under new head coach Rob Edwards in the friendly against Cambridge United.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” said Manning. “Especially coming through each age group and finally signing my contract now, it’s a great achievement and I’m over the moon, and a bit speechless!”

The midfielder joined the club when he was just eight, and spent time last season out on loan at both Kings Langley and Biggleswade United.

Manning is good friends with fellow youngsters Shaq Forde and Ryan Andrews, who have also signed pro terms.

He said: “Ryan and Shaq have been like my brothers from very young so to grow up with them and to have all signed our contracts now is an amazing feeling. Hopefully there’s much more to come from all of us.”