Mfuni proving to be a loan diamond

They say to never fall in love with a loan signing, but for Watford fans this is proving to be difficult in the case of Stephen Mfuni.

The defender from Manchester City has just turned 18 years old, he's got a big, beaming smile and he's brilliant at football.

He came to Vicarage Road at the end of January when the then head coach Javi Gracia was hoping for an experienced centre-back. He got a teenager instead, and it left us wondering what a kid with no Championship experience could do to improve the team.

Mfuni's impact was instant. In his first game he oozed class, and it wasn't just his technical ability, which we kind of expected due to his City background, that impressed.

It was his drive, his determination and his willingness to defend like an experienced EFL player.

We then wondered whether there would be a dip in form... there hasn't been. He's hardly put a foot wrong.

He's a centre-back and left-footed, which makes him an even bigger asset.

Mfuni is 6ft 2in, elegant and silky, excellent with the ball at his feet, and is a natural when bringing the ball out from defence. He's slotted in at left-back seamlessly when required, and he's come close to scoring from set-pieces.

He has timing, balance and reads the game well, but he's tough too. He wins duels and battles.

Watching him make it look so easy against seasoned Championship campaigners leaves you feeling like a proud parent. I spoke to him recently, and what's also satisfying is that he's humble too.

Head coach Ed Still says he has no ceiling, he's that talented. Some Hornets fans believe he's the best loan signing they've ever had.

For someone so young to make such an impression means his potential is enormous.

If he continues on this trajectory, Manchester City have a diamond of a young player who could have a top future with them for years. Watford are enjoying watching him sparkle.

He surely won't be at Vicarage Road next season as he's already proved he's more than capable at Championship level. The Premier League will enjoy him instead, with either City or another Premier League team, who should be jumping at the chance to take him on loan.