JOHN Eustace has described himself as 'delighted' and 'honoured' to sign the new contract with Watford this week which will extend his stay at Vicarage Road by a further two years.
He also wanted to take this opportunity to explain the exact circumstances of his aborted move to Leeds United and reveal how honoured he was when Hornets' boss Malky Mackay offered him the captain's armband.
John, who originally moved to Hertfordshire from Stoke City in January 2008, effectively became a free agent once he had helped Watford beat one of his former clubs, Coventry City, 4-0 in the season's last game a month ago.
His contract was due to expire and he was free to talk to other clubs before deciding on his next move. Throughout this time he also maintained an open dialogue with Malky in the hope that a deal could be agreed to keep him at Vicarage Road.
John explains: "I had always hoped to stay with Watford because I've really enjoyed the last year. We have an incredible spirit amongst the players and staff and it wasn't something that I wanted to give up lightly.
"Having said that, there were also a number of other clubs interested in me and I felt it was right to listen to what they had to say. After doing that, I was then very happy to commit to stay with Watford and agreed in principle to extend my contract for two more years."
It was at this point that things took a slightly unexpected turn. John was due to meet Watford staff at the club's training ground last Wednesday (26 May) to sign the contract that had been agreed. However, on that morning, John received a firm offer from newly-promoted Leeds United.
John takes up the story: "Leeds made me a good offer and I owed it to myself and my family to meet them and hear what they had to say.
"I called Malky and kept him totally in the picture and he was disappointed but understood my situation. I travelled up to Yorkshire on Friday and met some Leeds officials at their training ground."
"I have seen some nonsense written in the last couple of days", said the former Coventry midfielder.
"People have been suggesting that I had failed a medical at Elland Road. That is total rubbish. I did a full and thorough medical and simply had a change of heart and decided not to sign. The whole move up there didn't feel right to me at this time.
"Watford would not have made me a two-year offer if they had any doubts about my physical condition and don't forget I played 45 matches last season. I feel like I am in the best condition of my career and that is due in no small part to the medical and conditioning staff here", continued John.
"So I called the gaffer to ask if his original offer was still on the table. I was delighted when he said it was and even more pleased when he asked if I would like to captain the side next season. Captaincy is a role I take very seriously so I was honoured and I can't wait to lead the side out in August."
Speaking on the appointment of his new captain, boss Malky said: "John has shown great leadership qualities and is highly respected by all the staff and players.
"He is an ideal role model for our younger players on and off the field and he is more than comfortable in that role.
"Obviously you are looking for your captain to lead on the pitch, but that is something John has demonstrated whether he's been captain or not. Off the pitch and around the training ground John is the role model for the younger players, he is organised and I've got no doubts that he will be a great captain for the Club."
The newly appointed captain finished by saying: "I chose to stay at Watford because I felt it was the right place for me at this stage of my career. I really enjoy it here and felt that there was too much to turn my back on in exchange for a move to Leeds. It's as simple as that really."
