Colchester United defender Lloyd Doyley says he will always be grateful to Graham Taylor for giving him his big chance in the professional game.

Tributes from the football world have been flooding in following the death of former Watford, Aston Villa and England manager Taylor yesterday, at the age of 72.

Doyley, who joined Watford at the age of nine and went on to enjoy a 14-year professional career at the club, was handed his first contract by Taylor during the former Hornets manager’s second spell in charge at Vicarage Road.

The U’s defender paid tribute to Taylor – and says he will always be thankful to him for giving his big break.

Doyley told the Daily Gazette: “It’s very sad news.

“I was growing up and playing for the youth team at Watford when Graham was manager and he gave me my first professional contract.

“Everyone knows that he is a legend at Watford and his memory will always live on.

“He was a massive part of the club and he’s done so much to get them to where they are now.

“He’s had the promotions and got them up the leagues and into Europe and he’s also had a massive influence behind the scenes and with all of the community work.

“There’s a stand at Watford that’s been named after him and I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a statue now, too.

“I’d been at Watford for most of my life and still live there.

“I know that the club will certainly be giving him a very fond farewell this weekend – I’m sure it will be very emotional.”

Doyley, who made more than 450 league and cup appearances for Watford before leaving last May, said Taylor was a big presence around the football club.

“I remember Graham being an intimidating person at Watford when I was an 18-year-old,” added the 34-year-old, who is likely to be on the bench for Colchester when they take on Newport County tomorrow.

“I was so young but I was very grateful to him for watching me and giving me a contract and 15 or 16 years down the line, here I am.

“He was the England manager before he became the Watford manager (for a second time) and it was a bit daunting seeing someone like that around the football club but he was the nicest guy and a real gent.

“I last saw him six months ago and he was fine, jolly and happy.

“He had the wit and wisdom about him and that made everyone listen to him.”