Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd has released defender Jordan Stewart, who rejected the offer of a new contract earlier in the season.

Stewart was Boothroyd's first signing when he joined the club in 2005, but after making 117 appearances for the Hornets has been told find a new club.

The 26-year-old left-back rejected a new deal earlier in the campaign and was set to become a free agent in the summer.

"We had a chat and decided it would be best if Jordan began the next chapter of his career now rather than later," Boothroyd told the club's official website.

"Jordan has only ever wanted to play and I can't guarantee him that, especially at this stage of the season. He was my first signing and I will always remember him fondly for that."

Team Talk / Eurosport