Canada’s Ismael Kone leaves CF Montreal for England’s Watford in wake of World Cup

Midfielder Ismael Kone is leaving CF Montreal for England's Watford, becoming the second member of Canada's World Cup squad to switch teams since leaving Qatar.

The World Cup has helped another young Canadian move abroad.

Midfielder Ismael Kone is leaving CF Montreal for England’s Watford, becoming the second member of Canada’s World Cup squad to switch teams since leaving Qatar.

Watford, which plays in England’s second-tier Championship, said the 20-year-old Kone will join the club Jan. 1 on a 4 1/2-year contract.

Watford, whose honorary life president is Elton John, currently sits fourth in the Championship at 9-6-6.

Kone follows former Montreal teammate Alistair Johnston in heading to Europe. The 24-year-old fullback/wingback’s transfer to Scotland’s Glasgow Celtic was confirmed Saturday.

Kone saw action in each of Canada’s three games at the World Cup, coming off the bench against Belgium, Croatia and Morocco. He has won nine caps in all.

After the Croatia game, he said he had been unfazed at the prospect of matching up against a star-studded midfield in Luka Modric (Real Madrid), Mateo Kovacic (Chelsea) and Marcelo Brozovic (Inter Milan).

“I just see good players, players I want to compare myself too,” Kone said. “They’re players that play on a big stage in Europe. But there’s no fear playing against them. It’s only enjoyment. It’s just going out there and having fun, I guess.”