This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
Watford, a Premier League side struggling with relegation, has made a surprise move by appointing former Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson as their new boss. This decision comes just 48 hours after the club sacked Quique Sanchez Flores.
Flores took over from Javi Garcia but failed to improve the team's fortunes, leading to his dismissal less than 90 days after his appointment.
On December 7, 2019, the team will face Crystal Palace without Pearson at the helm, as his appointment was made after the club's preparations for the game were already underway. Hayden Mullins, the under-23 coach, will take charge instead.
Watford's chairman, Scott Duxbury, confirmed the appointment, highlighting Pearson's extensive experience and success. 'Nigel comes with all of the experience and success we believe can have a very positive impact on our season,' Duxbury said.
