Watford have confirmed the appointment of Rob Edwards as the club’s new manager amid a furious response from Forest Green Rovers.
Former defender Edwards, 39, led Rovers to promotion from League Two earlier this month and will replace Roy Hodgson at Vicarage Road next season as the Hornets prepare for their return to the Championship.
The club confirmed the appointment on Wednesday evening in a statement that read: “Rob had a contractual provision allowing him to leave Forest Green Rovers at any time to discuss employment opportunities at other clubs and the Hornets are delighted to confirm our discussions concluded today.”
However, Forest Green owner Dale Vince has strongly criticised the appointment having not been approached by Watford or Edwards over the deal.
A club statement added: “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.”
