Quique Sanchez Flores’ second spell in charge of Watford is over after just 85 days following his sacking by the Hornets this lunchtime.

The Spaniard, who was in charge at Vicarage Road for the club’s first season back in the Premier League in 2015/16, was reappointed following the dismissal of Javi Gracia just four league games into this campaign.

However, the 54-year-old was unable to revive the club’s fortunes on the pitch and has been axed after just one win in 10 league games, having taken seven points out of a possible 30.

Sanchez Flores’ exit looked increasingly inevitable after he admitted he was ‘not sure’ if he would still be in charge for Wednesday night’s trip to Leicester City following yesterday’s 2-1 defeat at Southampton.

Confirming his departure “with regret” in a club statement, chairman and chief executive Scott Duxbury said: "Quique is a man of great integrity and it was clear how much he wanted to have a positive impact, but ultimately results have dictated our decision.

"The appointment of a new head coach is imminent, and with nearly two-thirds of the season remaining, we will provide all the support necessary to make the coming months successful."

That new head coach is increasingly tipped to be former Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion boss Chris Hughton.