RUDI Vata has expressed hope that his son Rocco can fulfil his enormous potential after stepping out of his comfort zone and joining English Championship club Watford.

Republic of Ireland Under-21 internationalist made six first team appearances for Celtic, the club his father played for in the 1990s, in the past two seasons and scored for the Glasgow giants in their Scottish Cup win over Buckie Thistle last term.

The Parkhead outfit were keen to keep the 19-year-old forward in the East End when his contract expired this summer – but the promising young player signed a four year deal at Vicarage Road last month. 

Ex-Albania defender Vata is optimistic that leaving home at such a young age and testing himself in the second tier down south will help his boy to develop and mature as a footballer and a person.

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“Watford had a special project for Rocco,” he said. “They were very hungry to get him, starting from the owner. He wanted Rocco badly. The manager and the sporting director were the same.

“When I walked into Watford I realised that every member of that club, starting from the doorman, all worked together for the good of the club. The strategy of the club is very straightforward. Everyone at the club is responsible for what they have to do. You have to deliver to keep your job there.

(Image: PA) “I had no influence on the decision making. But I could see the project was very good. I knew that Rocco deserves to be in a club where they really appreciate him and have a special project for him.

“There were so many Italian Serie A clubs who wanted Rocco to sign. But Rocco was not willing to leave the UK. In the last few months, it was only between Celtic and Watford. If he had stayed at Celtic it would have been very comfortable for him. Sometimes you have to take the hard road.”

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Vata continued: “I believe he has a lot of good qualities that God has given to him, but he has a lot to work on, a lot to learn and a lot to improve. Knowing that Watford are so dedicated and have so many people in different areas to work with him in individual sessions and stuff on a daily basis, I think it is the right club.

“The beginning has been tough for him. He has moved away from home and has gone through some emotions like I imagine every young man who has left his family and friends behind. But you have to make some tough decisions in life. I felt if he had stayed at Celtic he could have pushed on. But it is done now.

“He is improving every day there. He has already stated to show his qualities and he has made an impact in the games he has played in pre-season. I think he has the qualities.

“If he shows the same determination I did in my career he will have a good career. But this game is very delicate. It can punish you if you are not professional enough. He has got a great opportunity in England. Everything is on the plate for him now. All he has to do is show that hunger and determination. If he does that, nothing can stop him.”