Nigel Pearson sacked by Watford amid relegation concerns

Nigel Pearson has been sacked as Watford head coach with two games remaining in the season, as the club looks to avoid relegation.

The former Leicester and Derby boss replaced Quique Sanchez Flores in December. At the time Watford were nine points adrift at the bottom of the Premier League.

The 56-year-old immediately oversaw a run of four wins in his first seven matches. Including ending Liverpool’s undefeated start to the season.

However, the Hornets have only recorded two wins since the restart. With Friday night’s 3-1 loss to fellow relegation rivals West Ham meaning they sit just one place and three points above the drop zone.

That result leaves Watford now needing a win against either Manchester City or Arsenal to be certain of staying up.

Mullins and Stack take charge

Pearson’s assistant Craig Shakespeare has also been dismissed. Under-23s coach Haydn Mullins and goalkeeper coach Graham Stack have been placed in temporary charge.

Pearson is the third managerial sacking by Watford this season. Following Javi Gracia and Quique Sanchez-Flores in being shown the door.