Jokanovic named Watford boss after short McKinlay reign

Slavisa Jokanovic has been named new manager of Watford, who have disposed of Billy McKinlay after just eight-days in charge.

Former Scotland international McKinlay was appointed following the departure of Oscar Garcia, who was forced to step down due to ill-health. He himself only found himself in the hotseat in September when he was chosen to replace Beppe Sannino, who has since returned to his homeland to coach Serie B side Catania.

Remarkably, the Vicarage Road outfit have now appointed a fourth manager in the space of just six weeks, after Sky Sources reported McKinlay was leaving the club after just eight-days and two matches – a win and a draw – into this reign. Former Chelsea midfielder Jokanovic has now been installed, taking over a club third in the Championship.

Watford owner Gino Pozzo said on Tuesday morning: “Our job is always to act in the best long-term interests of this football club. I fully support and endorse the view from our technical staff that, given the talented squad which has been assembled and our current position in the league table, an experienced head coach with a winning pedigree is of primary importance to help ensure the success we are all striving for.”

So what experience will Jokanovic bring? The former Yugoslavia international took his first steps into management with Partizan Belgrade in 2007, winning successive league and cup doubles during his two-years in charge. His next port of call was Thailand and Muangthong United, leading them to a title having gone undefeated all season.

His next job was in Bulgaria, but this was short-lived as Levski Sofia showed him the door after three months due to a string of poor results. The 46-year-old’s playing career spanned 16 years and took in Vojvodina, Partizan, Oviedo, Tenerife, Deportivo La Coruna, Chelsea, and he ended his playing days in 2004 following a brief spell with Murcia.

Watford fans, what is going on at your club? Have your say on this latest episode by joining in with the discussion below.

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