Watford defender Adrian Mariappa has signed a new two-year contract at Vicarage Road.

The 20-year-old has made 24 first-team appearances this season as the Hornets failed to survive in the Premiership, and spoken of his delight at agreeing a new deal.

"I am very excited to sign for another two years and I'm looking forward to next season, getting out there and playing," he told the club's official website, www.watfordfc.co.uk.

The news follows the announcement that manager Adrian Boothroyd has penned a new three-year deal, and Mariappa was pleased to hear that the 36-year-old was staying put.

"Aidy Boothroyd is the one who's had the faith in me," he said. "He didn't have to put me in the team but he's stuck with me and given me the opportunity of another two years."