Football
Exclusive: Watford Set to Offer Tom Ince New Contract as He Eyes Life Beyond Playing
Watford is reportedly offering Tom Ince a new contract despite him being 33. Son of Man U legend Paul Ince, he is focusing on coaching while still contributing on the pitch. The club values his experience and mentorship potential. Ince has played for 13 clubs, starting at Liverpool.
Fulham v Watford - Emirates FA Cup Third Round by Crystal Pix/MB Media | Getty Images
Watford are set to offer Tom Ince a new contract, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.
The 33-year-old feels he still has plenty to offer on the pitch despite already having an eye on the future.
Ince, son of Manchester United legend Paul, has started undergoing his coaching badges as he looks towards life after his playing days.
Our sources understand Hornets’ bosses see a value in Ince’s experience and his ability to help nurture younger talent at the club over the next couple of years.
Speaking to Watford Observer recently, he said: “I have the hunger and desire to play and to show people that I'm still capable of doing what I did ten years ago.”
Ince moved to Vicarage Road in 2023 following Reading’s relegation to League One.
He made 59 league appearances across his first two seasons at the club and has played seven Championship games this term, mainly off the bench.
It is unknown whether Ince is willing to take a more backseat role in terms of playing time as he enters the twilight years of his career.
£10M Man
Capped at England level from U17 to U21, Watford is Ince’s 13th club.
Ince started his career at Liverpool, where father Paul played, and made his debut for the in the League Cup.
A short loan move to Notts County followed before he turned down a contract at Liverpool to move to Blackpool in 2011.
During his stint at Bloomfield Road Ince showcased his talents with 31 Championship goals in 100 appearances, earning himself a spot in the PFA Championship Team of the Year and Football League Young Player of the Year award in the 2012/13 campaign.
He made his Premier League debut with Crystal Palace whilst on loan and made a permanent move to Hull City in the top flight.
Ince scored 11 goals in 18 appearances for Derby County in 2015 and signed a permanent deal for £4.5million.
From Derby he moved to Huddersfield Town and then spent four seasons at Stoke City after signing for £10million.
Shane is an experienced sports journalist with over a decade on the front line, covering everything from football to horse racing. A familiar face in the snooker pressroom, his work regularly appears in the Daily Mirror, Daily Express, and Daily Star, alongside SportsBoom.
While snooker is where many readers know him best, cricket is his true sporting passion, though he tends to keep that side of him separate from his professional beat.
A staunch traditionalist, he’s unlikely to share your enthusiasm if you believe The Hundred is the future of Test cricket.