Forest Green Rovers claim the manner of Rob Edwards’ departure “gives football a bad name” with the head coach now expected to be named the new manager at Watford.
Four days after Edwards sealed the League Two championship with Forest Green following a 2-2 draw with Mansfield Town, the 39-year-old has left New Lawn with the club seemingly furious that talks with the now-relegated Premier League club have taken place.
Edwards was appointed by Forest Green last May following his time in the England Under-16 set-up and took them into League One for the first time in their history, with promotion sealed after a 0-0 draw against Bristol Rovers last month, but that achievement appears to have been soured with owner Dale Vince following the club’s unique statement.
“FGR confirms the departure of Head Coach Rob Edwards,” a statement read. “Rob was a key part of the team that gained promotion to League One this season. We’re disappointed that our support, loyalty and honesty towards Rob has been repaid in this way - with negotiations taking place behind our backs.
“We had no contact from Watford, from whom we might expect less, but in any event this kind of behaviour gives football a bad name.
“We thank Rob for all his work at FGR - forgive him the manner of his departure and wish him well.”
Forest Green will join Rovers in League One next season along with fellow promoted club Exeter City. One of Swindon Town, Port Vale, Mansfield Town and Northampton Town will take the final promotion spot via the play-offs.
The news also arrives in the same week Forest Green managed to hold onto director of football Rich Hughes amid intense interest from League One Portsmouth. Hughes has been instrumental in the outstanding recruitment made in Gloucestershire, enabling Edwards to construct a title-winning team.
Edwards will now inherit a Watford side whose relegation from the Premier League was confirmed last weekend but who will be among the favourites for promotion from the Championship.
The 39-year-old began his career with Aston Villa and was handed his senior debut in 2002 by then-manager and Watford legend Graham Taylor.
SIGN UP: For our newsletter to receive more exclusive Bristol Rovers content
