Watford slam 'disrespectful' speculation over Wilder sacking and claim end of season stay

The Hornets have offered a rebuff to earlier claims in a club statement, backing Wilder until the end of the season

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The 55-year-old was appointed on March 7 after the sacking of Slaven Bilic, who spent six months in the role.

Wilder was the 18th full-time appointment under the Pozzo family since July 2012 and the 19th could be imminent.

The former Sheffield United boss has only won one of his six Championship matches in charge and the Hornets are six points adrift of the play-offs in 12th.

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talkSPORT understands the Hornets are ready to wield their heavily-used axe, with Italian manager Francesco Farioli mentioned as a possible replacement.

However, the club have hit back at claims in a statement from club director Ben Manga.

"The speculation is totally disrespectful to Chris and his staff," said Manga.

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"As Chris has said after recent games, we are all fully focused on ending the season strongly and pushing as hard as we can while there's still a chance of making the play-offs."

The statement further added: "The Hornets confirm Chris Wilder will remain the club's Head Coach until at least the end of the 2022/23 season, as per the terms he and Watford FC agreed upon his appointment in March."

Reacting to initial reports, former Premier League midfielder Danny Murphy questioned the way the club is run.

Speaking to talkSPORT he said: "When they were yo-yoing in and out of the Premier League, the fans put up with it," adding the constant managerial changes make it a bit of a laughing stock.

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"They've had a horrendous injury list and the Championship is tough at the best of times.

"But I look at Watford now as a bit of a joke. I find it absolutely bizarre."