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Aldred explains Hornets switch

Tom Aldred says he joined Watford for the opportunity and did not snub Carlisle for financial reasons.

Youngster says money was not the factor

Tom Aldred says he joined Watford for the opportunity of Championship football and did not snub Carlisle United for financial reasons. The youngster's contract at Brunton Park had expired, although he had been set to stay on before opting for the Championship outfit. Aldred's agent stated earlier this week that Carlisle had not offered him enough money to remain in League One. While the 19-year-old has conceded Carlisle's opening offer was disappointing he fully intended to stay on prior to Watford's interest.

Incentives

He told the Times & Star: "My agent said in the press that it was to do with money, about a lack of incentives, but for me it wasn't about that. "Anyone who knows me knows I have not gone anywhere for money. I'm not flash. I would happily play football for next to nothing. "I'll be honest and say the first offer from Carlisle was a bit disappointing. I thought I deserved a bit more. To be fair to the manager (Greg Abbott), the next day we discussed a different contract and at that stage I had every intention of signing for Carlisle. "But when I got back from holiday I got a call from my agent saying that Watford were interested in me and after speaking to them I realised it was just an opportunity I couldn't turn down."

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