Former Watford defender Craig Cathcart has joined Belgian top-flight club KV Kortrijk.

The Northern Ireland international, who left Vicarage Road at the end of last season, has signed a one-year contract with the option of a further year.

The 34-year-old has experience of playing in Belgium from earlier in his career, having joined Royal Antwerp on loan from Manchester United for the 2007/08 season.

Cathcart’s nine years with the Hornets came to an end after making 29 appearances last season, with his last appearance coming in the 2-2 draw at Coventry City in April.

Overall, he made 262 appearances for Waford, including a spell on loan in 2009, and scored eight goals, while helping to keep more than 70 clean sheets.

Talking about his departure, he said: “Thanks to all the people at the club that have helped me along the way, through the highs and lows.

“The club has given me a lot, I’ve made some lifelong friendships and some memories that I’ll never forget.

“All the best for the future to everyone connected with Watford.”

Cathcart’s new club are based in West Flanders and play at the Guldensporenstadion, named after the Battle of the Golden Spurs which took place in Kortrijk in 1302.

The club will be hoping Cathcart’s signing helps tighten up a defence which has shipped 17 goals in its opening six games, leaving the club bottom of the Jupiler League table with only one point on the board so far.