Stevenage’s persistence has paid off with the signing of defensive midfielder Daniel Phillips.

The former Chelsea and Watford Academy player has joined Boro on a two-year deal after leaving Scottish Premier League side St Johnstone at the end of last season.

Boro boss Alex Revell said: “Dan brings new qualities to central midfield. We have tracked him ever since he left Watford two years ago – it’s taken a while, but we are delighted to get him over the line.”

The 23-year-old did not make a senior appearance with the Hornets but during his time at Vicarage Road he spent time on loan with Hemel Hempstead Town and at Gillingham, making 27 league and cup appearances during the 2021/22 season.

He moved to Scotland in August 2022, making 50 starts in all competitions for the Perth-based club.

Phillips is a Trinidad & Tobago international, winning 12 caps since his debut in 2021.

Ironically, his first appearance for Boro could come against Watford when the two sides meet in a pre-season friendly at the Lamex Stadium on July 13.