Omer Riza has been confirmed as Watford Under 23s coach, after taking over the role on an interim basis in December.

The former Leyton Orient boss took over from Hayden Mullins when he was brought into Nigel Pearson's coaching set up and later given the first-team job on an interim basis.

Since then he has carried on working with the youth squad until he was installed on a full-time basis this week.

Speaking to the club website, Riza said he was delighted to have been trusted with the position and said he wanted to continue with the work Mullins had done before.

“I’m really delighted,” he said. “I’ve come into the group with Hayden and he made me feel part of it, got me involved. I’m very happy to be given the opportunity now and hopefully I can continue the good work that’s being done at the club.

“I'd like to thank [Head of Academy] Barry Quin and [Academy Manager] Richard Thomas for giving me the opportunity and all the staff that have played their part in helping to facilitate over the last six months of transition at the club. It is very much appreciated. I'm looking forward to the continued development and nurturing of our aspiring young pros.”