Defender Wesley Hoedt explained that conversations with William Troost-Ekong helped convince him that Watford was the best place to write the next chapter of his impressive career, with the January arrival eager to aid the Hornets’ promotion push in the weeks ahead.
The 28-year-old signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at Vicarage Road on deadline day last week, joining for an undisclosed fee from Belgian giants Anderlecht having also turned out for the likes of Lazio and Southampton since making his professional debut for boyhood club AZ Alkmaar in 2013.
With a pool of friends and colleagues within the game, Hoedt turned to former youth international teammate Troost-Ekong before signing terms with the Golden Boys, and after putting pen to paper he expressed his delight at the manner in which all at Watford have helped him settle in so far.
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“I spoke to William Troost-Ekong, just after he’d signed for Salernitana on loan,” said Hoedt, who has won six full caps for the Netherlands. “We played together for the Dutch Under-21s, so I know him well.
“I asked him some details, and he was very positive about the move. That helped me make my decision, and I’m delighted to be here now. It’s a great club, and it’s a great opportunity for me.
“The atmosphere around the training ground has been amazing so far. Everyone has helped me in the best way possible and made me feel at home straight away – the other players, but also every staff member I’ve met.”
Having faced off against the Hornets on four occasions during his four years with the Saints on the English south coast, Hoedt has fond memories of the club and is looking forward to making more in the famous yellow jersey.
He said: “I remember coming up against some tough players against Watford, including Troy Deeney. He was very friendly, but very strong physically! He was an amazing player, and I know how important he still is to the fans here.
“I always remember Vicarage Road being a great stadium, with a great pitch. There’s always a brilliant atmosphere, and I’m really delighted to have the opportunity to call this my home ground now.”
Hoedt was an unused substitute during Watford’s 2-2 draw at Reading on Saturday (February 4), and he is itching to gain his first minutes with 16 games of the campaign remaining.
With such a wealth of experience Hoedt is confident he can provide a useful asset to Watford’s hopes of an instant Premier League return, and he offered an insight into what supporters can expect to see from him on the pitch.
He added: “I’m excited to get playing again. I had a tough couple of months at my last club, so it’ll be great to be back out on the grass, and in England again after my time at Southampton.
“Of course, I’ve played for a few different clubs, and for the Netherlands national team, so I think I have a lot to offer. I’d say one of my strong points is my physicality, and I like to think of myself as a leader as well.
“Collectively, there’s only one ambition, which is to win promotion. We will do everything in our power to achieve that, and hopefully we can deliver it for the fans.”
