Jamal Lewis insists he can’t wait to get going at Vicarage Road following his recent arrival on loan from Newcastle United, explaining that a combination of factors made Watford the perfect club for him at the current stage of his career.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a rapid rise after making his professional debut for Norwich City in 2017, becoming a key part of the Canaries’ 2018/19 promotion-winning side and being named in the Sky Bet Championship Team of the Year at the end of that campaign.
Since sealing a high-profile move to Newcastle in September 2020 Lewis has made 36 appearances in all competitions, but he is aiming to secure more regular gametime in the second-tier with the Hornets.
The opportunity to work with Head Coach Valérien Ismaël hugely appealed to the Bedfordshire native, who is also looking forward to being closer to home and in and around his friends and family during the coming season.
“It feels great to sign, and I’m raring to go now,” the Northern Ireland international said. “I’ve had a good summer, and been away with Newcastle in pre-season, but once I heard there was interest from a club like Watford I was delighted.
“Knowing that the club’s ambition is to get back to the Premier League definitely resonated with me. I spoke to the coach, and he sold me his ideas, his philosophy and the culture that he wants. It definitely fits with what I want, which is very exciting.
“It’s lovely to back to near where I’m originally from, and it means my friends and family will be able to come and watch me more often than in the past. It’s important to share these moments with those closest to you, so I’m grateful that I’m going to be able to do that while I’m here.
“On the pitch I definitely feel that I’ve got a point to prove. I’m hungry - which is the most important thing - and I’ve had many experiences under various managers and in different leagues which I think I can bring to the Watford team.”
With 64 Championship appearances under his belt - and that 2018/19 promotion - Lewis is looking forward to being reacquainted with the division, and attempting to replicate previous successes.
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And as the clock continues to tick down to next weekend’s 2023/24 curtain-raiser at home to Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO), he is eagerly anticipating his first taste of playing at The Vic adorned in the famous yellow jersey.
Lewis added: “They were really enjoyable days at Norwich, and hopefully I can bring some knowledge and guidance from my time there to the table here at Watford now.
“Everyone knows the Championship schedule is hectic - it can be difficult, but it’s enjoyable too. When you’re winning games and you build up that momentum it’s a brilliant feeling, so I’m looking forward to trying to achieve that this year.
“I can’t wait to play at Vicarage Road. I’ve played there as an opposition player and I’ve always thought the atmosphere is great, so I’m super excited to step on to the pitch and give the fans everything I’ve got.”
