Watford have boosted their promotion hopes with the signing of experienced centre back Matthew Connolly - who has won the Championship in three of his last four seasons.

Connolly has joined the Hornets on emergency loan until June 1 in a move which appears to be a cost-cutting measure for the Bluebirds.

The 27-year-old has started three of the South Wales side's last four league fixtures prior to his switch, including Tuesday night's draw at home to Bournemouth, but owner Vincent Tan seems keen to reduce the wage bill with the club 17 points below the play-offs and all-but safe from relegation.

Connolly will join up with Slavisa Jokanovic's squad tomorrow (Friday) and could make his debut in Saturday's home clash with Ipswich Town.

The 6ft 2in defender won the Championship in three consecutive seasons between 2011 and 2013 with Queens Park Rangers, Reading and Cardiff City.

The Hornets have been trying to sign an experienced centre back since Sebastien Bassong's return to Norwich City in January and appear to have found their man in Connolly, who can also play at right and left back.

Connolly has made 26 appearances for the Bluebirds this season, with 23 of those coming in the Championship.

After turning professional with the Gunners, Connolly made two outings in the League Cup before leaving the north London outfit for QPR in January 2008.

He made 125 appearances for the Hoops in four years at Loftus Road, winning the first of three promotions in 2011.

Connolly joined Reading on loan towards the end of the 2011/12 season and helped the Royals win promotion to the top flight by making six starts.

Upon his return to Loftus Road, Connolly was sold to Cardiff City in August 2012 and made 36 league starts as City won promotion to the Premier League for the first time in their history.

He was use sparingly during Cardiff's solitary season in the top flight, making just three league starts during an injury-plagued season.