Watford manager Malky Mackay has confirmed that defender Jay DeMerit will keep hold of the captaincy for the coming season.

The American was skipper last season and has again been trusted to lead the Hornets out.

Mackay said: "Jay came to the club and the country as a young man with a lot of willingness in his heart.

"He still shows that today and his displays for his country over the summer only confirmed that.

"He knows the squad well and has a very important role in leading them."