Watford appoint Roy Hodgson, 74, as manager to replace sacked Claudio Ranieri

Watford’s new manager, Roy Hodgson, has been confirmed after agreeing to take command of the relegation-threatened team until the end of the season.

 

According to Sportsmail, if the 74-year-old can lead the club to Premier League safety, he will receive a seven-figure bonus on top of a’modest’ wage. On Tuesday morning, Hodgson arrived at Watford’s London Colney HQ to finalize the formalities of a six-month deal. Later that evening, his appearance was confirmed and announced to the public.

‘Watford FC is thrilled to confirm the appointment of Roy Hodgson as the club’s manager,’ read a statement from Watford.

Watford’s next Premier League match is away to Burnley on Saturday, February 5. Hodgson and Lewington will begin preparations immediately.

‘Welcome to Watford, Roy. And welcome back, Ray!’ Hodgson replaces Claudio Ranieri, who was sacked on Monday after a dismal run capped by a 3-0 home defeat by relegation rivals Norwich.

Upon his departure, the Italian said on Monday: ‘Good luck to everybody, Watford, the fans, the board — that’s football but I believe with these new players Watford can be safe.

 ‘A fantastic manager is arriving. I wish them all the best.’ The ex-England national team boss is joined by his trusted assistant Ray Lewington, who managed the Hornets so admirably from 2002 until 2005.