Javi Gracia steps down as Watford manager following talks with the board

Javi Gracia has brought his second spell in charge of Watford to an end following talks with the board after a winless run stalled their Championship play-off push.

The Hornets have failed to win any of their last five games in all competitions, a sequence that has dented their league position and momentum at a crucial stage of the season.

Gracia’s departure came less than 24 hours after he raised doubts over his future following Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat to Swansea City, during which he admitted the club needed clarity over its direction.

And now Watford have confirmed on Sunday that the Spaniard has resigned with immediate effect after concluding discussions with the owners at Vicarage Road.

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Sad

A statement said: “The club is sad and disappointed to confirm the resignation of Javi Gracia as head coach.

“We retain the belief Javi was the right man to lead the club towards its push for promotion, but Javi felt he no longer had the motivation and was not the right man to continue coaching this exciting group of young players.

“We respect his decision and accept his wish to leave Vicarage Road with immediate effect.”

Well placed

The club added: “Charlie Daniels, Dan Gosling and Adrian Mariappa will take charge of the team against Hull City on Tuesday night.

“We remain well placed in the Championship, four points off the play-offs with a game in hand and 17 matches remaining.

“Everybody at the club believes wholeheartedly this is a squad capable of challenging for promotion.

“We would like to thank Javi and his team for their work during two spells at the club. We wish him and his family the best and they will always receive the warmest of welcomes at Watford.”

Gracia returned to Watford in October, taking over from Paulo Pezzolano. He enjoyed a mixed start to his second spell before hitting a purple patch, recording four consecutive victories from December through to New Year’s Day.

His sudden departure after just three months means Watford have now had 25 managers, including caretakers, since Aidy Boothroyd’s stint from 2005 to 2008.

READ MORE: Watford 0-2 Swansea City: Javi Gracia is seeking talks with owners