Midfielder Imrân Louza has become the latest first-team player to commit his long-term future to Watford, as the Morocco international has signed a new contract running until the summer of 2028.

Despite the club’s relegation from the Premier League last season, Louza made a big impression after joining from FC Nantes in June 2021, going on to feature 22 times in all competitions.

The left-footer impressed with his passing ability and versatility as he became a key player in the latter half of 2021/22, making 11 straight starts in the top-flight between February and April.

After missing the final four league games of last season, Louza underwent surgery to resolve a niggling knee injury in the summer, with his subsequent rehabilitation programme having so far prevented his involvement in the current campaign.

The 23-year-old - who won four of his 10 international caps at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year - is edging closer to a return to match action, having gradually upped his involvement with the rest of the first-team squad at the London Colney training ground.

News of Louza’s fresh deal follows João Pedro’s commitment to the Hornets last week.