Former West Brom boss Slaven Bilic appointed Watford manager after Rob Edwards sacking

Watford have appointed former West Bromwich Albion boss Slaven Bilic as their new manager following the sacking of Rob Edwards.

The Croatian returns to English football after a brief spell in China, signing an 18-month deal with the Hornets.

Edwards’ sacking comes just six days before Watford’s next league game against Stoke City, with the Hornets sat 10th in the league after 10 games.

Bilic’s most recent venture in England came with the Baggies, where he guided the club to promotion during the 2019-20 season after a second-place finish in the Championship.

The 54-year-old was dismissed as Albion boss in December 2020 after securing seven points from 13 games in the Premier League, including a 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium against Manchester City.

He has also managed West Ham United in England between 2015 and 2017, while having experience in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Russia and his homeland.

Speaking on Bilic’s appointment, Watford owner Gino Pozzo said the following on their official website: “As with all decisions taken by the Board, I believe this change to be in the best interests of the club.

“We felt Rob had enough time to show us the identity of his team, however performances haven’t reflected our hopes and ambitions.

“Now we must move forward, and, in Slaven Bilić, we have secured the services of an experienced coach who has recent experience of promotion to the Premier League.”

Bilic will have the task of turning Watford’s fortunes around. The Hornets have won just one of their last five league games and were eliminated from the EFL Cup by Milton Keynes Dons last month.