Watford have appointed Roy Hodgson on a short-term contract until end of 2021-22 season, following their decision to sack Claudio Ranieri.
Ranieri was sacked on Monday evening (24 January) following a terrible run of form since taking charge in October, with Watford owner, Gino Pozzo now opting for an experienced Premier League manager in Hodgson.
Hodgson’s arrival also marks a return to management for the 74 year-old just 247 days after he stood down as manager of Crystal Palace, having spent four years at Selhurst Park stabilising the Eagles.
In a press statement, Watford confirmed that Hodgson would be joined at Vicarage Road by his close assistant, Ray Lewington who had previously managed the Hornets between Summer 2002 to March 2005.
The club also issued clarification around first-team training, as they commented: ‘Hodgson and Lewington begin preparations immediately for Watford’s next Premier League fixture; away to Burnley on Saturday February 5.’
Watford is Hodgson’s 22nd club as a manager after previously managing six English clubs including; Bristol City, Blackburn, Fulham, Liverpool, West Brom and Palace, as well as managing internationally including the Switzerland National Team.
Hodgson’s first match as Watford manager will take place on Saturday 5 February away to Burnley at Turf Moor in a 6pm kick-off, live on BT Sport, with his first home match as Hornets manager taking place on Saturday 12 February against Brighton at 3pm GMT.
Hodgson will also face a return to Selhurst Park as the Hornets visit Palace on weekend of 6-9 May 2022 in the Premier League.
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