EPL: Isaac Success’ manager sacked, replaced

Watford have parted ways with coach Javi Gracia after picking up just one point from their first four Premier League games.

Nigeria international Isaac Success will have a new manager after the international break as Watford’s manager Javi Garcia becomes the first Premier League casualty, getting axed after overseeing a poor run of results over the month of August.

Chairman Scott Duxbury said: “Javi has represented Watford with great dignity and will always be deserving of our fullest respect for his achievements.”

A club statement added: “Everyone at the Hornets wishes Javi and his staff all the very best for the future, and they will always be welcome visitors in the future at Vicarage Road.”

Less than a year ago, Gracia put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half year contract at Vicarage Road. Watford also had the option to extend the deal by a further three years.

Garcia repaid the club brilliantly last season as he led Watford to an 11th-placed finish – their best ever in the Premier League – as well as only the second FA Cup final in their history.

However, his side has started the 2019/20 season poorly having taken just one point from their first four Premier League matches this season and sit bottom of the table.

In a swift move, Watford have announced the appointment of former boss Quique Sanchez Flores.

The 54-year-old Spaniard returns to Vicarage Road after coaching the Hornets during the 2015/16 season, leading them to a 13th-placed finish and the FA Cup semi-finals before moving to Espanyol.