The 22-year-old has failed to score for the Hornets since joining from Rotherham in January 2007 and appeared to be on his way out after spending last season on loan at Millwall and Nottingham Forest.

But with the departures of Nathan Ellington and Steve Kabba this summer Hoskins has been thrust back into contention.

Boothroyd said: "Will will be staying here. I always want to be flexible and it is a clean slate for Will. He's got undoubted potential and he'll fit into the way we play.

"He's a very clever player and he'll open up defences. He's bright, got a bit to prove and I like them to be hungry.

"If he can stay clear of injury and have a good pre-season he will come right into the reckoning. He'll create problems for defenders because he doesn't stand still."