FORMER Saints defender Wesley Hoedt scored a ridiculous 40-yard goal to ensure Watford beat Hull City 2-1 on Saturday.

The Dutch defender's halfway line strike came 16 minutes from time and restored Watford's lead at the MKM Stadium.

Hoedt, 29, joined Southampton from Lazio in 2017, signing a five-year deal. He only made 45 appearances for the club before departing in 2021 after loan spells at Celta Vigo, Antwerp and Lazio.

Speaking to Watford's club media, Hoedt said: "I saw that their striker was receiving the ball and he didn't turn well so I thought I could intercept it.

"I saw the goalie was off his line and thought 'Why not?'. It's actually very funny because we had a game plan against Leicester.

"Their goalkeeper plays really high as well, but he played very well against us and I didn't get the chance.

"I think it was instinct. It's a nice goal, but we should focus more on the whole team because we have been excellent."

Southampton will travel to Watford's Vicarage Road next Saturday (December, 9) to face them in the Championship.

Both sides are currently in good form. Watford have lost just one of their last nine while Saints are unbeaten in 11.