WATFORD boss Malky Mackay has today (Thursday) revealed that influential midfielder Tom Cleverley will play no further part in proceedings this season.

The England Under-21 star was stretchered from the pitch during the second half of Watford's draw with promotion-chasing West Brom at Vicarage Road on Monday.

The extent of Cleverley's injury has been assessed since and today Malky confirmed he will not pull on a Watford shirt in the remaining Championship games.

Malky said: "Tom Cleverley has knee ligament damage and his season is sadly finished."

The lateral ligament injury means the Golden Boys will be without the services of the Manchester United loanee in the remaining five league games - starting with Saturday's home game with Plymouth Argyle.

Since joining the Club in August, Cleverley has made 35 starts, netting 11 goals to make him the Hornets' top scorer.

"It is a terrible shame for both Tom and the Club" added the Watford boss. 

"Since arriving he has been fantastic for us in every way, not just in games but also with his all-round attitude and application to the way he goes about his work.  

"It is never nice seeing someone stretchered from the field, but I am sure he will come back hungry to make an impact and to get back to his football. 

"Having worked with Tom for a number of months I am sure he will go on to have a top-level career.

"His impact since being at the Club has been there for all to see.

"No doubt Tom has learnt plenty with us over the last few months and I'm sure he will draw on those experiences as he goes on to establish himself in the game.  

"We are grateful to Tom, his family and to Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United for trusting us with one of their young talents.

"It goes without saying that everyone here wishes him a speedy recovery."

Elsewhere, the Golden Boys will also be without the services of Jon Harley and Henri Lansbury this weekend, due to suspensions.

Will Buckley and Lloyd Doyley also came off injured against The Baggies. The manager today explained the pair have hamstring injuries and their fitness will be assessed nearer to kick-off on Saturday.  

Defender Martin Taylor and striker Heidar Helguson were ruled out of Monday's clash with knocks and the duo remain a doubt going into Saturday's game with The Pilgrims.

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