James on his arrival at The Vic today

Boss Ray Lewington today swooped to add strength to the defensive ranks by snapping up defender James Chambers on a month's loan from West Brom.

The 23-year-old right back, who can also slot into right midfield, arrived at the club today and goes straight into the squad for consideration ahead of tonight's game against QPR.

"It's a brilliant opportunity to get some games under my belt and play first team football, so I'm overjoyed at the move,'' he said. "At the moment my hopes of breaking into the first team at West Brom are limited, so that's why I decided to look elsewhere and I'm very happy to be joining Watford for a month.

"I'd like to get a run-out tonight but obviously that's down to the manager. It would be nice for the fans here to see what I can do on my first day at the club.''

James, who came through the ranks at the Hawthorns, has made 58 starts for West Brom - his twin brother Adam is also a Baggies defender.

"I've played here before a couple of times for West Brom - I particularly remember a game in December 2000 at Vicarage Road when Watford went 2-0 up, we came back and made it 3-2 only for Tommy Mooney to grab a late equaliser. It was a really exciting game to be involved in.''

The 5-foot-10 defender didn't have to look too far at the Hawthorns to obtain some sound advice about the club, seeking out a player who certainly knows a thing or two about Watford.

"Paul Robinson has done well since he arrived at West Brom and always spoke very highly of Watford,'' he explained. "After speaking to Robbo and hearing what he had to say I quickly decided to come here.''

The manager was also delighted by the capture, adding this was not the first time Chambers had been in his sights.

"We went in for him initially during the summer but we didn't quite pull it off,'' said Ray. "We've gone back to West Brom and asked the question again and I'm happy to say we've got him.

"He's quick with a good attitude and can also play right midfield if needed. He's played for a big club and can definitely help us. The injuries to Lloyd Doyley and Jermaine Darlington certainly placed greater emphasis on bringing him in.''

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James is welcomed to The Vic by a group of children on a stadium tour from the Learning Centre