FOLLOWING in the footsteps of former loan players who have gone on to succeed at high levels of English football, Watford boss Malky Mackay has been thoroughly impressed with the current crop gracing Vicarage Road.

Tom Cleverley and Craig Cathcart are on loan from Manchester United, Henri Lansbury joined the 'Orns from Arsenal until 31 December, while fans' favourite Heidar Helguson has added experience to the ranks, after signing on loan from QPR until 28 December.

Previously the Vicarage Road crowd has seen the likes of Ben Foster, Chris Eagles and Adam Johnson make an impact on the Golden Boys, but the crop of 2009/10 have all the attributes to succeed at the top level, according to the boss.

"The way all of our loan players have settled into the Club speaks volumes about the staff we have and the way we work.

"We're thoroughly professional in the way we conduct our business and once we've secured a player, either permanently or on loan, they're offered whatever assistance they need so they feel totally at ease and at home.

"The two boys from United have all the attributes to succeed in the modern game. I'm delighted about Tom committing and signing until May.

"All of the clubs have trusted us with their players and that speaks volumes about what we're about here at Watford.

"Our relationship is good with all the parent clubs and we regularly update them on the players' progress.

"Heidar is different to the other three in that he brings experience and a maturity to the group. You always need a few older heads around the place. He fits in very well and has reminded all of our supporters what he can do in front of goal."

Lansbury joined the Hornets on loan from Arsenal in August and he has gained England Under-21 honours since being at Vicarage Road.

The manager added: "Henri has been a fantastic acquisition for the Club, he has clearly grown in confidence since joining and it's been a pleasure to work with him day-to-day."

To date, the 19-year-old has started 13 games for the 'Orns, finding the back of the net on two occasions.

Reports in a national newspaper yesterday (Thursday) claimed the Hornets will ask the Gunners to pay half of Lansbury's wages in a bid to keep the midfielder at the Club until May.

Malky rubbished such suggestions and said: "The report is total nonsense.

"It's obvious someone is mischief-making as this report is massively wide of the mark.

"There is no truth whatsoever in it, our healthy relationship with Arsenal continues and we look forward to working with them in the future."