Exeter City have announced a key midfield update, with Caleb Watts signing a contract extension until the end of the 2024/25 season.
At the same time, Kamari Doyle has returned to his parent club, Brighton & Hove Albion, after his loan spell was cut short.
Watts Secures His Place
Watts, the Australian midfielder who joined Exeter City in September 2023, has quickly become a fan favourite at St James Park. Having made 30 appearances for the club, his energy and creativity in midfield have been pivotal to the team’s campaign. This season, he has already played 19 matches, scoring once and contributing two assists, including a memorable moment against Oxford United that set up Vincent Harper’s goal.
The 23-year-old expressed his delight at the extension, saying:
“It was an easy decision to make. The club has kept faith with me through injuries, especially the gaffer, so I want to repay that faith. I just want to play well, score goals, and do well for myself and the club. If I’m rewarded with a longer contract, then brilliant.”
Manager Gary Caldwell also praised Watts’ recent performances: “Caleb has done brilliant in the last couple of months, and it is testament to him and the fitness staff. Caleb is starting to show the form we believed he could show when we signed him. Hopefully, he can have a big impact on the team for the rest of the season and beyond.”
Doyle Departs for New Challenge
While Watts remains with Exeter, 19-year-old Kamari Doyle has been recalled by Brighton & Hove Albion. Doyle, who joined Exeter on loan last summer, made 24 appearances across all competitions and scored four goals, including a stunning free-kick against Bolton Wanderers in September.
Doyle has now joined League One side Crawley Town on loan for the remainder of the season, seeking further development opportunities. His contributions to Exeter, including goals against Stevenage and Shrewsbury Town, will not be forgotten by the club’s fans.
Writer’s View
Caleb Watts’ contract extension is a testament to his resilience and potential, solidifying his role as a key player for Exeter City. While the departure of Kamari Doyle leaves a gap in midfield, it also highlights the challenges of managing loan agreements in modern football. The club’s ability to retain talent like Watts while adapting to changes speaks volumes about its ambition to compete in League One.
