Former Manchester United man takes interim charge of Championship club in shock appointment

Watford have sacked manager Valerien Ismael after a 2-1 defeat at home by Coventry City, and placed Manchester United academy graduate Tom Cleverley in temporary charge.

The Hornets lost to the Sky Blues on Saturday afternoon, leaving them in 13th place in the Sky Bet Championship. The play-off spots look out of reach this season and the club could be looking over their should with only seven between them and the relegation zone.

Ismael, who used to manage Barnsley and West Brom, joined Watford in May and extended his contract in October. However, a string of poor results has led to his dismissal after being the Pozzo family's 20th managerial appointment at Watford.

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During his time in charge, the Hornets won 12 out of 41 games, lost 15 and drew 14. The club announced on Saturday evening: "Tom Cleverley will assume the position of interim head coach at Vicarage Road."

They added: "This follows Watford FC terminating the contract of Valerien Ismael after today's home defeat to Coventry City.

"The Hornets thank Valerien and his staff for their dedication and commitment. However, the club's board considers it an appropriate time to make a change in order to improve results."

"Tom Cleverley's staff will be confirmed in due course."

Cleverley, came up through the youth team at Old Trafford. He played a total of 79 first-team games for the club, scoring five goals and providing eight assists. He moved to Everton on a free transfer in 2015 before joining Watford two years later.

Cleverley announced his retirement from