Mike Williamson: “To be honest, I was disappointed more than anything when it did not materialise.
“Adrian Mariappa is one of my closest friends – we were together at Watford and he really wanted to come here. He turned down the move to Wigan, too.
“I wasn’t thinking of myself because I think competition is healthy so I spoke to him a few times on deadline day to see what was happening.
“I don’t think he knew what was going on and in the end I was just disappointed for him on a personal level because I knew how much he wanted to come.
“But I know Watford are in a position where they are still battling to stay in the Championship. I think they were more concerned about their own survival.
“Anyone who comes here, it is outside my control. If he had come, I’d have welcomed him and just tried to play the best I can to stay in the side.
“I’m sure he will get another chance. Adrian is a very good player – very similar to Colo (Fabricio Coloccini) in that he is quick and good on the ball. But I have got the jersey at the minute and that is how I see it. I have just got to train and play hard."