OFFICIAL: Sean Dyche sacked

Watford manager Sean Dyche has officially been relieved of his duties this afternoon.

The news was very much expected after the Pozzo family had declared that Gianfranco Zola would become the Hornet's new first-team coach.

However, whilst most sources announced that Dyche and Watford had parted company on Tuesday, official confirmation took until this afternoon.

Dyche's departure brings to and a 10-year association with the Hornets for the Kettering-born former defender who first signed for the club in 2002.

An official club statement thanked Dyche for his impeccable service:

'On behalf of the club, the Pozzo family acknowledges that Sean's positive contribution to Watford FC dates back long before his appointment as manager in June 2011.

'The Pozzo family also recognizes Sean's impeccable conduct, representing the Hornets with honour and dignity at all times.

'His achievements under difficult circumstances mean that he will rightly be held in high regard by Watford supporters.'

Bar a brief period with Northampton, Dyche remained in WD18 for a decade before eventually landing the top job in the wake of Malky Mackay's departure last summer.

Dyche filled nearly every role within the backroom staff during his time with the club after initially being brought in as youth team coach under Aidy Boothroyd.

A spell as assistant to Mackay followed a spell in Brendan Rodgers' coaching setup between 2008 and 2009.

As boss, Dyche oversaw 49 first-team matches as Hornet's boss, winning 17, drawing 17 and losing 15. In his only season, the club finished 11th - their best finish since Boothroyd's charges finished in the Play-Offs.

Thanks for everything and good luck in the future, Sean, from all at VitalWatford.

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