Bates joins Watford

Former Hereford United coach Richard Bate has joined Watford.

59 year-old Bate has spent the last year as technical director of the Canadian Soccer Association.

"I want Watford Football Club to have the best Academy in the world and I believe we have captured the best developer of talent in the world in the shape of Richard," Aidy Boothroyd, the Watford manager, told the club's official site.

"This is a massive coup for me and Watford, and it's as important a signing we will make this summer. He is going to be a massive addition to any young player's development plan, and he adds to what is an already strong Academy department at Vicarage Road."

Already at Watford is former Hereford United player Gavin Mahon who is the Watford captain. Mahon has signed a new two-year contract extension with the Premiership newcomers

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