Watford confirm third new manager of the season as Nigel Pearson takes charge

Watford have confirmed Nigel Pearson as the club's third manager of the season.

The former Leicester City chief has been appointed with the Hornets rock bottom of the Premier League, following a dismal start to the season.

Pearson, 56, has signed a deal until the end of the campaign, after Quique Sanchez Flores was dismissed last Sunday, after less than 90 days in charge.

The Spaniard was sacked after a 2-1 loss at Southampton, having only taken charge in September, when compatriot Javi Gracia - who led the side to last season's FA Cup final - was relieved of his duties.

Watford under-23 coach Hayden Mullins took charge for the defeat at Leicester City on Wednesday.

Now Pearson takes the reins, having last managed in the Premier League at Leicester, being sacked in May 2015. He was subsequently replaced by Claudio Ranieri, who led the Foxes to the title the following season.

Pearson has since had a five-month spell at Derby County, leaving by mutual consent in October 2016 and at Belgian First Division side OH Leuven, where he exited back in February.

Watford chairman Scott Duxbury said: “Nigel is an impressive coach and comes with all of the experience and success we believe can have a very positive impact on our season.

“It’s been a pleasure spending time listening to the passion with which he talks about the game.

"His enthusiasm, organisation and motivation will I’m certain prove essential in driving the team forwards and upwards over the coming weeks and months.”

Interim boss Mullins will once more lead the side against Crystal Palace on Saturday, with Pearson taking up his post after the weekend.

Duxbury added: “I’d like to thank Hayden Mullins for stepping in to coach the team on an interim basis. He is fully deserving of everyone’s gratitude.

“Tomorrow gives the perfect opportunity for Nigel to be officially introduced to our supporters as Hayden leads the team in the quest for a very important three points.”