LMA praise Aidy Boothroyd

League Managers Association Vice-chairman Frank Clark praised Watford supremo Aidy Boothroyd for sensationally guiding Watford to the Promised Land of English football in his first full season in charge.

“We're delighted with the progress Aidy has made at Watford,” clark told the LMA’s site. “During the close season he will obtain his UEFA Pro Licence the qualification he needs to coach in England’s premier competition.”

The former Nottingham Forest manager also paid tribute to chairman Graham Simpson and the rest of the Watford board appointing Boothroyd, who was 34 at the time and had no previous managerial experience.

“Full credit has to go to Watford,” added Clark. “Their chairman didn't go for a `sexy' name or someone who was very successful as a player - they saw a young and inventive coach and said `we'll give him a chance'.”

Similar to Watford legend Graham Taylor, Boothroyd retired when he was in his 20s due to injury and Clark believes that it is good for the game that coaches who were not top-flight players get a chance in management.

“I think it is good for the industry that a manager with his playing background can get a chance. Unfortunately his career finished early and it pushed him into coaching earlier than expected,” said Clark.

“He worked very hard and is now a fine example to other young managers. He is an inspiration to those in the lower leagues and it is very encouraging to others.”

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