Watford striker Britt Assombalonga has extended his loan spell with League Two outfit Southend United until the end of the season.

The 20-year-old has scored 12 goals in 25 starts since joining Paul Sturrock's side at the beginning of the season, but his initial loan spell with the club was due to expire in January.

"We're delighted to be keeping Britt here with us until the end of the season, it's excellent news. We would like to thank everyone at Watford for allowing him to stay with us," Sturrock told the club's official website.

"The young lad is really enjoying his football and has bonded well with all the squad so it seemed right for him to remain with us considering how well he has done on the pitch.

"With us looking to get promoted it's important we can keep players like Britt who can win us matches, so we're thrilled he'll be here until May."

Southend currently occupy sixth spot in the League Two table.