Colombian forward Jorge Hurtado is in contention to make his Hornets debut in the Emirates FA Cup third round clash at home to Chesterfield tomorrow (Saturday January 6, 3pm KO).
The 20-year-old agreed to sign for Watford from CD Real Cartagena in October 2022 before spending the latter half of that season on loan at Independiente Medellín.
Hurtado later joined MLS outfit New York Red Bulls on loan in August 2023 and is now training with Watford after the expiry of that deal.
“He came in good shape after his loan with New York,” said Head Coach Valérien Ismaël.
“After the loan with New York it seems like he’s a little bit more mature, and now it’s a good opportunity for us to assess him.
“We see a lot of potential in him and we will see if he is able now to help us straight away.”
Hurtado will recognise a familiar face at Watford after playing at last year’s Under-20 World Cup alongside fellow Colombian Yáser Asprilla.
“He [Hurtado] is a strong striker and very, very fast,” said Ismaël.
“He’s left footed and has a big heart. He runs a lot on the pitch with great intensity and has great finishing.
“For sure he needs to learn a lot, but I think he has all the potential to take the next step.”
Hurtado will wear the number 17 shirt at Vicarage Road.
The Hornets will remain without Jeremy Ngakia tomorrow due to a long-term ankle problem, while Jamal Lewis will continue to miss out with a hamstring strain.
Ken Sema will also be absent while Edo Kayembe has departed for the Africa Cup of Nations with Democratic Republic of Congo.
Vakoun Bayo will serve the second match of his three-game suspension following his red card against Stoke City.
