OUT-OF-CONTRACT left midfielder Andy Ferrell has signed a one-year deal with Watford.

The ninteen-year-old was released by Newcastle United at the end of last season and signed for the Hornets on Tuesday (July 6).

Sir Bobby Robson's decision to release 19-year-old Ferrell at the end of last season caused some surprise among the Newcastle United ranks. Despite not featuring in the first team, the left-footed central midfielder impressed for the Reserves, scoring 11 goals from 21 starts.

"He's only a young 'un, but he came recommended from people within Newcastle," said the Watford boss Ray Lewington.

"He won't mind me saying that he's not on a great deal of money, but he was looking for an opportunity. He's got a great attitude and he's a good player. This is a fantastic opportunity for him."

Lewington, who was disappointed when news of his move for Ferrell was leaked to the Press, cooled his initial interest when the player's agent made what were deemed to be unrealistic wage demands.

However, these were scaled down to the extent that Ferrell was able to complete the deal.

"Newcastle thought a lot of him and he had a lot of supporters trying to extend his contract, but the decision was made," continued Lewington.

"Ironically, we do have a scout in the north-east so we do get to see the Newcastle and Sunderland reserve reports, and he was one when we went back over the reports was getting special mentions. He's taken the eye.

"He's left-sided, but prefers to play centrally on the left," explained Lewington, who has not signed him with a view to filling the void left by Lee Cook's departure to QPR last week.

Fot a full interview with Ferrell, see this week's The Watford Observer.