Javi Gracia resigns as Watford manager after just three months in charge

Javi Gracia has resigned as Watford manager after just over three months in the role following Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Swansea.

Gracia, who returned for a second spell as Watford boss in October, reportedly called for a meeting with owner Gino Pozzo after a defeat at Vicarage Road after stating the team were in a “difficult moment”.

Watford are without a win in four Championship games and are currently 10th in the Championship, four points off the play-off spots.

Charlie Daniels, Dan Gosling and Adrian Mariappa will be in the dugout for the Hornets for their trips to Hull City on Tuesday.

A clubs 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. 

“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.”