Claude Puel, Marcelino and Sabri Lamouchi have all been touted as potential successors to Nigel Pearson as Watford manager.
Watford Manager Latest: Sabri Lamouchi, Marcelino and Claude Puel Linked
Hornets Seeking Nigel Pearson Successor
The Hornets are searching for a new manager after they sacked Pearson ahead of their final Premier League fixture.
It came as a surprise departure with Watford’s safety not yet guaranteed.
They head into their match at Arsenal knowing they must better Aston Villa‘s result at West Ham to stay up.
But, according to the Evening Standard, Puel, Marcelino and Lamouchi are the early candidates.
It is understood that Watford’s delay in making an appointment is as a result of uncertainty over which division they will compete in next season.
Puel, the former Leicester City boss, is currently in charge of French side Saint-Etienne; while former Valencia boss Marcelino is another favoured target.
Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic and Forest’s Lamouchi are mentioned in the Evening Standard’s report.
Watford Under-23 coach Hayden Mullins is to take the reins as caretaker manager. He is highly thought of at Vicarage Road but is reportedly not being considered as a candidate.
Verdict
It is important that Watford do not rush into making any hasty decisions.
If the Hornets secure their Premier League status, a manager with experience in the top-flight is a must.
A candidate such as Claude Puel would likely allow them to continue in the Premier League but without the thought of a relegation battle.
However, if they are relegated, a candidate with experience of gaining promotion swiftly is a must.
The Evening Standard report that Chris Hughton was interviewed prior to Pearson’s appointment; he would be a great choice if the Hornets become a Championship side.
The 61-year-old won the Championship with Newcastle United; he was runner up with Brighton & Hove Albion.
Lamouchi has had a successful time with Forest in his debut Championship campaign and so could be a good fit at Watford; however, his side’s implosion in failing to reach the play-offs may raise some questions.
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