Watford have confirmed that Kash Odiase, an 18 year old Nigerian forward, has signed his first professional contract with the club ahead of the 2025–26 campaign. Despite undergoing surgery in March to address a serious injury, the player was offered a deal reflecting the club’s belief in his potential.
Odiase impressed during the previous season’s FA Youth Cup, scoring in consecutive wins against Oxford United and Crewe Alexandra as his side reached the semi-finals. His form earned him a professional deal even while sidelined, highlighting Watford’s commitment to academy progression.
Born in Nigeria and developed at Bromley FC and Bromley District, Odiase joined Watford in 2023 as a scholar. The new contract, lasting three years with an optional extra year, secures his future as he continues rehabilitation—and awaits his senior debut under the Championship side’s new season.
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Editorial
We welcome Kash Odiase’s signing as a bold and encouraging statement. Offering a professional contract to a player recovering from injury goes beyond mere scouting it shows faith in character, resilience and long-term planning.
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We believe Watford’s decision reflects a club that values pathway continuity. From scholarship to first contract, Odiase’s progression exemplifies a club culture where commitment and youth development matter, even when immediate returns may not be evident.
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We feel this move will inspire younger academy players: reward is not only for performance on the pitch, but also persistence and adherence to growth mindset. Odiase’s road to recovery will now be nurtured with professional medical support, mentoring and gradual integration into training and squad routines.
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We assert that for Watford, producing homegrown talent remains essential to sustainability. Signing players like Odiase sends a message to all stakeholders youth investment is not optional it’s strategic. With the first year of professional football still ahead, his journey may shape the club’s next wave of talent.
Did You Know?
Kash Odiase joined Watford as a second-year scholar in the 2023–24 season, having previously played for Bromley FC and Bromley District.
He scored in back-to-back matches during Watford’s run to the Cup semi-finals, against Oxford United and Crewe Alexandra.
Despite suffering a significant injury requiring surgery in March, he was still offered a [professional](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/nigerian-premier-league/npfl-plans-colourful-trophy-presentation-for-remo-stars/) contract—underscoring the club’s confidence in his future.
Another Nigerian-born forward at Watford’s academy, Tobi Adeyemo, also signed his first professional deal in 2024, becoming the club’s eighth-youngest ever scorer.
Watford’s broader youth development strategy has seen them retain Republic of Ireland U19 international Nickson Okosun and [extend midfielder](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/news/interviews/sunday-oliseh-names-festus-onigbinde-worst-coach-in-super-eagles-history/) Tom Dele-Bashiru’s stay until 2028.