Goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay has joined Watford’s neighbours Hemel Hempstead Town on loan until May 1.

The 18-year-old will go straight into the Tudors’ squad for their National League South game away at Eastbourne Borough tomorrow (Saturday).

Town appointed Alan Dowson as their interim manager this week, placing him in charge for the rest of this season following the departure of manager Brad Quinton on Tuesday.

Hemel are currently 16th in the league table and, while not in immediate danger of being sucked into a relegation battle, have lost five of their last six games.

Macaulay is an England Under-18 international who has been a regular starter for Charlie Daniels’ Under-21 side this season.

He joined Watford just over three years ago, and signed a new two-year deal in summer 2023 with an option of a further year.

Two of Macaulay’s fellow Academy products are also on loan locally at the moment, with goalkeeper Gabriel Ortelli and forward Michael Adu-Poku having a spell at Southern League Division One Central side Kings Langley.

The pair made their debuts in a 2-1 away defeat at Stotfold on February 17 and have made a total of three appearances each, with Adu-Poku opening his goal account for the Kings in their recent away game at Hertford Town.

Striker James Collins recently spent a month on loan at Isthmian League side Haringey Borough, making three starts and a further three outings from the bench.

Young defender Scott Holding, who is on loan at Dover Athletic until the end of the season, scored for the National League South side in their 2-1 defeat at Chippenham recently.

Watford’s Under-21s are due to play two Premier League Development League South fixtures next week.

On Monday, they travel to The Den to face Millwall in a game that kicks off at 2pm, and then on Friday they host Ipswich Town at London Colney (1pm).