Chris Hughton was an option for managerless Watford but will instead replace Lee Johnson in the Bristol City hotseat, according to the Sun (24 July, page 55).
With the Hornets dropping into the relegation zone at precisely the worst time with just one fixture remaining in the Premier League season, their apparent interest in a proven, promotion specialist will have some fans wondering whether they are preparing for life back in the Championship.
After all, Hughton’s record in the second tier is better than most.
It was he who ensured that Newcastle United’s time in the Football League was short-lived, winning the Championship title at the first time of asking in 2010.
And, after guiding Birmingham City into the play-offs, Hughton would then lead Brighton into the Premier League for the first time in their history.
With the Sun claiming that the Essex-born 61-year-old is now set for a formal interview at Bristol City after Steven Gerrard and John Terry seemingly rejected the chance to take over at Ashton Gate, Watford will have to look elsewhere.
The Robins have flirted with the play-offs on multiple occasions in recent years.
And, having replaced ‘streaky Johnson’ with a man renowned for instilling consistency and organisation, do not be surprised if Bristol City challenge for a place in the top three or four soon enough.
Watford have also been linked with St Etienne boss Claude Puel, via the Mail, despite his rather underwhelming spells at Leicester City and Southampton.
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