Matthew Connolly says Watford first tried to sign him on loan from Cardiff City in January but he is delighted to have returned home to join the Hornets’ promotion bid.

The 27-year-old surprisingly completed his temporary switch to Vicarage Road last week despite making 26 appearances for the Bluebirds this season in all competitions.

Cardiff boss Russell Slade says the decision to let Connolly leave south Wales was purely a business decision with the club encamped in mid-table in the Championship.

The defender admits he was surprised to leave Cardiff, especially after the club rebuffed the Hornets’ initial approach in the winter transfer window.

“I knew Watford wanted me in January but it didn’t quite happen,” he said yesterday.

“Once I was told I was staying at the club in January my mind was focused on helping Cardiff. I was aware though if Cardiff got to mid-table and were safe then leaving might happen.

“When they called and told me I could go I was surprised but I know they are trying to get other players out on loan as well for the business side of it.

“From the outside it probably looks like I am on massive wages but that is not the case. I’ve always got on well with Russell Slade and he’s a really good guy who was honest with me.

“He said it wasn’t his decision but the club wanted it to be done and as soon as I knew I could come to Watford I was fine with that decision.”

Connolly wasn’t included in the Watford squad to face Ipswich Town on Saturday as the deal hadn’t received international clearance but watched the game from the stands.

The Hornets lost 1-0 to the Tractor Boys but remain in the automatic promotion positions with seven matches to play.

Connolly, who has been promoted to the Premier League three times during his career with Queens Park Rangers, Reading and the Bluebirds, believes Watford have the necessary quality to reach the top flight.

“There are some great players here and everyone is confident of getting promotion this season,” he said.

“Everyone has made me feel really welcome. I am a local lad too. I live in Bushey and grew up in Hatfield, so I am delighted to be home.”