Former Watford captain Jay DeMerit proved as good as his word after honouring a bet by having a drink with Hornets fan Josh Marks on his 23rd birthday in New York.

At the start of last season, Marks, who is studying in America, tweeted DeMerit asking if they could meet for a beer if Watford stayed in the Premier League.

DeMerit accepted the bet on the proviso he could convert at least ten Americans into Hornets fans.

He managed to reach the target and with the side holding their own in the top flight DeMerit, who was in New York filming for the MLS, happily agreed to meet up along with former Houston Dynamo and Chicago Fire forward Calen Carr.

Marks, who was out until 4am with the pair, said: “It was literally the greatest birthday I’ve ever had. Both were very friendly and genuine. I was surprised by how welcoming they were especially as it was late and they didn’t have to agree to meet.

“I asked Jay as many questions as I could about his time at Watford, the memories he has and the goal against Leeds [2006 play-off final].

“He was genuinely interested in who I was and how I came to be a Watford fan.”

Writing on Facebook, DeMerit said: “Josh just moved to NYC and I just happened to be here for a few days.

“A bet is a bet! Great to meet you Josh, the Yellow Army faithful should be proud.”

The Watford supporter’s family live in Bushey and he is currently studying sports management and entrepreneurship at Wittenberg University in Ohio.

But Marks still manages to watch all the Hornets’ games online and his parents, who are season ticket holders, update him during the matches at Vicarage Road.