Clarke Carlisle could be sent out on loan in a bid to step-up his match fitness.

The Hornets defender has been sidelined for 10 months with a thigh injury and manager Adrian Boothroyd has revealed he may consider sending the player out on loan.

"It's important we don't rush him or push him too soon," Boothroyd has said.

"He must be right before he comes back into contention.

"I may consider getting him out on loan."