Josh Doherty has been praised by Watford’s head of academy Chris McGuane.

The 20-year-old Watford youth graduate signed a one-year deal with the option to extend his stay at Brisbane Road this week.

The defender made his debut for Watford in 2014 as he came on as an 80th minute substitute against Huddersfield Town and McGuane said the O’s have signed a great player.

“They’ve definitely got a very good player on their hands, Josh has got a fantastic attitude and wants to get better every day,” he said.

“He comes in and works hard every day, so for somebody just starting off his career, he’s going to be a real benefit for Leyton Orient to have him within their club moving forward.

“I’ll be keeping a close eye on how he progresses and will be on the other end of the phone if needed.

“He’s a fantastic lad and I wish him all the best.”

Doherty has played for Northern Ireland Under-21s and moved over to England when he signed for the Hornets in 2012 from the Ards.

He was released at the end of the 2015-16 season by the Watford club as his first team chances were limited and the club’s reserves were no longer available.

The left-back said he is excited about what is to come at E10.

“It is a very big move for me, I have heard a lot of good things about the club,” he told the Leyton Orient website.

“Since moving here I have loved living in England and always dreamed of coming over to play in this country.”

The youngster is hoping to build on his youth career and international experience, which began at Under-16s, at the east London club.

He said: “Playing at international level has been a great experience and hopefully I can get off to a good start here at Orient, impress the manager and make the most of my time by playing as many games as I possibly can.

“From my time at Watford I have learnt a lot about the left back position having initially played in midfield back home in Northern Ireland.

“My family still live in Norther Ireland and I am looking forward to having them come over and watch me play in an Orient shirt.”