Watford have sacked their manager Quique Sanchez Flores, 85 days after he returned to the club.
In early September, the Hornets dismissed Javi Gracia owing to their poor start to the season and reappointed Sanchez Flores in his place.
The Spaniard previously led the club in 2015/16 and hoped to bring positive results back to Vicarage Road, however things have not improved hence the decision to restructure once again.
The change comes after Watford’s 2-1 defeat at fellow strugglers Southampton, which ensured they remained rock bottom of the Premier League with just eight points from 14 matches.
Watford chairman and chief executive Scott Duxbury said in a statement: “Quique is a man of great integrity and it was clear how much he wanted to have a positive impact, but ultimately results have dictated our decision.
“The appointment of a new head coach is imminent and, with nearly two-thirds of the season remaining, we will provide all the support necessary to make the coming months successful.”
Watford said they would make no further comment until the appointment of a new head coach, with former Brighton boss Chris Hughton the favourite to take the role.
Sanchez Flores only returned for his second spell in charge at Vicarage Road on September 7.
His first game saw a point gained from a 2-2 draw with Arsenal, but this was swiftly followed by an 8-0 thumping at the hands of Manchester City.
October’s draw at Tottenham and November’s win at Norwich were positive moments, though defeats to Everton, Chelsea, Burnley and now Southampton ultimately cost the 54-year-old his job.
Watford now travel to high-flying Leicester on Wednesday, by which time they appear likely to have their third permanent manager of the season in the dugout.
Sanchez Flores becomes the third Premier League manager to the sacked in less than two weeks following the departures of Mauricio Pochettino at Tottenham and Unai Emery at Arsenal.
