Watford have confirmed manager Claudio Ranieri has been sacked after just three months in charge of the club. 

Ranieri’s successor will be the 15th permanent manager since the current owners took over The Hornets in 2012.

“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.” read the official statement. 

The 70-year-old’s time with the Hornets has largely been a disappointing one, with a 5-2 win at Goodison against Everton and the 4-1 win against Manchester United at Vicarage Road being the only high points. 

Watford are 19th in the Premier League table after having played 20 games and accumulated 14 points. However, a win against fellow relegation battlers in Burnley would see them leapfrog Newcastle United and Norwich City.

Former Crystal Palace and Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson has been rumoured to be lined up to replace Ranieri.