Sebastian Prodl believes there is no division in world football that can rival the the Premier League, however, the new Hornets defender admits it wasn’t easy to leave former club Werder Bremen.

The 28-year-old spent seven years with Breman but, after rejecting a new contract at the start of last season, left the German club at the end of the 2014/2015 campaign.

Watford quickly made their move. The Austrian international became the club’s first signing of the summer as the Hornets prepare for life in the Premier League.

Playing in England’s top flight was a major factor in Prodl’s decision to join the Golden Boys and he believes nothing can compare to the atmosphere and passion created by English football fans.

“The decision to leave Werder Bremen was hard, but the decision to come to the Premier League and to come to Watford was very easy,” Prodl told the club website.

“I met Mr Pozzo and I was impressed with his ideas, so I became interested in trying to make a contract with Watford. I had a good feeling about the people here, and I think it’s a good choice to come here.”

The centre-back continued: “I know that the German league is a very good league and one of the best in the world, but I don’t think you can compare it with the Premier League.

“The passion for the football here, the passion of the fans, the stadiums, and the big clubs you’re going to play against, there’s nothing better in the world. I’m very excited to get this experience.

“I hope I can play a very good part for the team. Watford got promoted last year and the first season’s always difficult, but never underestimate the underdogs because we’re looking forward to staying with the team in the Premier League.”

Prodl also revealed he spoke to former Werder Bremen teammate and current Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker about English football after making his move.

He added: “When I first signed here I met Per in London and he gave me some good recommendations about the area, because their training ground is nearby.

“He also gave me a good feeling about coming to the Premier League. He knows me as a player and as a human, so he recommended that I come and I’m very excited about it.”