Watford striker Shaqai Forde has joined National League side York City on loan until the end of the season.
The promising young forward is the first recruitment completed by new manager David Webb, who oversaw his first game in charge last Monday - a 3-0 loss to Gateshead.
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Background
The 18-year-old has been involved with the Hornets since 2012, impressing during his time with the U18's and U23's, and made his senior debut in the Emirates FA Cup against Leicester City last January.
Forde was praised for his excellency at Watford later in 2022, being presented the club's Young Player of the Season award.
In addition to the award, the forward also earnt his first professional contract with the Hornets in July.
Forde enjoyed a successful loan spell at Southern League Premier Division South outfit Kings Langley last season, despite his playing time being cut short to just three appearances due to a recall.
In the limited time given at Kings, he managed two goals, an assist, and won a crucial penalty for them on top of that.
On his return to Watford, then-manager Roy Hodgson was more than certain of a bright future, claiming, "he is a goal scorer, there is no doubt he has the desire to do well."
Ever since, he has continued to be involved with the senior set-up, making the bench for a couple of fixtures split across the Carabao Cup and the Sky Bet Championship this term.
The last appearance that Forde made for the Golden Boys was pre-Christmas, grabbing a goal in the U21's 3-1 win over Middlesbrough.
The Minstermen, who he now links up with, sit 16th in the Vanarama National League going into Monday's reverse fixture away at Gateshead.
Forde will be available to start at the Gateshead International Stadium in City's first game of 2023.
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Manager's Comments
On Forde's arrival at York City, manager David Webb gave his thoughts to the media: “Shaq is a highly rated prospect at Watford FC.
“As well as being a standout performer at U23 level, another part of the attraction to us is that he trains regularly with the first team and has had exposure to senior football.
“He will be a great addition to our squad and adds more quality to our front line. He can play as an 11, 7, 10, or a 9 which gives us different options in attack.”
