Former Arsenal goalkeeper Graham Stack reserved special praise for Nigerian-born midfielder Emmanuel Adebiyi after Watford progressed to the semifinal of the FA Youth Cup following their hard-fought 2-1 extra-time win against Leicester City on Wednesday.

Stack, who is the goalkeeping coach of the Hornets U18 team, was impressed by the versatility of Adebiyi who was used in several positions during the game at King Power Stadium.

The 18-year-old was involved in the buildup to Watford's winning goal when he played in Ryan Cassidy to score his second of the night in the first half of extra-time.

''Manny’s running power complements Sonny’s movement and Cass’ finishing ability,'' said Stack to Watford's official website.

''Manny was outstanding. We've played him in a number of different roles in the games and he’s took to it.

''He understands the roles and he goes out and carries out what we ask and that’s brilliant.''

Flying Eagles invitee Jayden Bennetts and Elewa-Ikpakwu went the distance for Watford and Leicester City respectively in yesterday's tie.

Igho Kingsley