The England youth international joined Watford in the summer, making 15 starts in all competitions and becoming a key component a Javi Gracia’s side that is unbeaten in 11 of their last 12 games and condeded 13 goals in that period.
“Initially when Max signed there were reservations about his physical profile and whether he would be able to adapt quickly to the Championship,” said James Batchelor from The Watford Way.
“Those concerns were quickly quelled and he went on to become a mainstay in the team.
“Some Watford players have nicknamed him ‘Jonny Stones’ which reflects how highly they rate him and the potential they believe he has to develop into a world-class talent,” he added.
So, is he ready for the intensity and physicality of the Premier League?
“Pep has a proven track record of fast-tracking young players into the City first team, and I can see the same happening with Max,” said Batchelor.
“He is a great talent with a calm head and, most importantly, remains humble. He will be greatly missed at Vicarage Road.”
And it is not just Watford fans who tip him to have a bright future.
“He’s curious, he’s a learner, and he’ll listen, and he’ll absorb information. I think that’s what’s allowed him to keep developing at Southampton, Man City and on loan,” Hale added.
“He’ll be respectful to the people he’s working with and the coaches that are teaching him. He’ll be curious to learn, he’ll ask questions and he’ll take things on board.
This article is the latest from BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team.
