Watford set to appoint Roy Hodgson as their new manager

Roy Hodgson is on the brink of becoming new Watford head coach following Claudio Ranieri’s sacking.

Sportsmail understands that only the final bits of paperwork need completing before Hodgson and his assistant Ray Lewington are appointed following the sacking of Claudio Ranieri on Monday.

Watford’s players and staff are aware of Hodgson’s imminent arrival. The deal should be concluded in the next 24 hours. 

Watford approached Hodgson to find out whether he was open to replacing Ranieri on Monday and the deal has accelerated quickly.

The 74-year-old left Crystal Palace at the end of last season and has been contemplating whether to return to the game.

Ranieri, who leaves the club sat 19th in the Premier League, managed to take just seven points from his time in charge at Vicarage Road. 

Sportsmail exclusively revealed on New Year’s Eve that the Italian was under increasing pressure at Vicarage Road amid doubts over his suitability as head coach and the decision has now arrived after the 3-0 home defeat by Norwich City. 

In a statement, Watford said: ‘The Hornets’ Board recognises Claudio as a man of great integrity and honour, who will always be respected here at Vicarage Road for his efforts in leading the team with dignity.

‘However the Board feels that, with nearly half of the Premier League campaign remaining, a change in the Head Coach position now will give a new appointment sufficient time to work with a talented squad to achieve the immediate goal of retaining Premier League status.’ 

Whoever replaces Ranieri will be their third manager of the season after the Pozzo family, who own Watford, dismissed Xisco Munoz on October 3.

Munoz left Watford 14th in the league but they have been in freefall since Ranieri’s arrival. 

Ranieri, 70, apologised to fans after the Norwich humbling and he departs having overseen 11 defeats since he replaced Munoz in October.