WATFORD announced the return of Javi Gracia as head coach today after parting company with Paulo Pezzolano and his backroom staff following a disappointing start to the new Championship campaign.

Pezzolano was appointed in May to replace Tom Cleverley after last season’s 14th-placed finish.

However, despite a busy summer transfer market, the Hornets have won only three of their opening nine Championship matches, beating strugglers Oxford before the international break.

Spaniard Gracia returns to Vicarage Road having left in September 2019 after he guided the Hornets to the FA Cup final at Wembley, where they lost 6-0 to Manchester City, as well as finishing 11th in the Premier League.

A club statement read: “Watford FC are delighted to confirm the return of Javi Gracia as head coach after deciding to part ways with Paulo Pezzolano and his backroom staff, whom we thank sincerely for their efforts and commitment during their time in charge. We wish them every success in the future.

“In appointing Javi, the club are confident that he will bring the qualities we believe are vital for this young squad: consistency in team selection, harmony within the dressing room and a strong connection with our supporters. His vision and approach align closely with our objectives.”

Watford chairman Scott Duxbury feels Gracia’s return can help galvanise the squad to push on up the table, with his first game in charge set to be away at Sheffield United on October 18.

“His passion, leadership and clear strategy will help us build stability, unity and momentum,” Duxbury said.

“We are sure there are many supporters who wished Javi had never departed in 2019. With this young and exciting squad we are convinced his experience and qualities are exactly what we need now.”

Gracia has no doubts he can make an impact at the club second time around.

“For me, the feeling I have in this moment is that I’m going back home. It was the happiest time of my career,” the 55-year-old Spaniard said on the Watford website.

“I have very good memories and we have unfinished business here.

“For us it’s another important step in our career. It is something special for us, and at the same time we are very ambitious for this season. If we are together, we are stronger.”