Watford midfielder Callum Whelan was delighted to see action in their FA Cup defeat at Tranmere Rovers.

Former Manchester United prospect Whelan says the U23 players, who included goalscorer Kaylen Hinds, can only grow stronger from the experience.

After making his first senior start for the club, Whelen, 21, told the club website: "I've been working hard in training and waiting patiently for my chance.

"I'm obviously gutted about the result, I'm disappointed because we want to win every game that we play, but it's nice to play 120 minutes and I think it's a valuable lesson as well.

"The pitch, the crowd, it's something I haven't really experienced before, so despite the result I do think it's a very good lesson that I'll learn from going forwards."