Former St Kevin's Boys star Ryan Cassidy signs first professional deal at Watford

Former St Kevin's Boys striker Ryan Cassidy has signed his first professional contract with English Premier League side Watford.

The 17-year-old has been in impressive form for the London club during his first season in England, scoring 15 times for the under-18s.

He made the step up to under-23 level in some style in January, netting a hat-trick in his first game, a 5-5 draw away to Bristol City in the Premier Development League.

And his form has been enough to earn the Dubliner a full senior contract which will keep him at the club until at least the summer of 2020.

"He's coming along really nicely," said academy manager Hayden Mullins after Cassidy made his under-23 bow.

"He showed all the qualities of a really good striker. He occupied the middle of the box really well and he didn't stop running.

“He didn't give up and I loved his desire, his will to keep going and his enthusiasm. I thought he was brilliant and hopefully there are many more goals to come."