‘He’s a real promising addition to the squad’ – Watford manager Tom Cleverly speaks highly of James Abankwah

Published on: 16 January 2025

The manager of Watford, Tom Cleverley has spoken highly of new signing James Abankwah.

The Republic of Ireland defender of Ghanaian descent sealed a loan move to the English Championship side on Thursday, January 16.

“Watford FC is pleased to announce the loan signing of Republic of Ireland Under-21 international defender James Abankwah.

“The 21-year-old joins the Hornets on a deal until the end of the season from Italian side Udinese,” the English club announced in an official statement.

Speaking on the player, Watford manager Tom Cleverly described James Abankwah as a promising addition to his squad.

“He is a really good profile for being able to defend in a four. He brings us speed, physicality, and I can see he values the art of defending. It is one where we were completely aligned on - it is not a project. We identified him as a player that is the perfect profile for what we are missing.

“He is one that the Udinese manager actually was quite desperate to keep, but we feel like he can add more value to us, and I am pleased he has come and joined us. He is a real promising addition to the squad,” the Watford manager said.

At Watford, James Abankwah will wear the number 25 shirt.

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