Championship: Billy McKinlay replaces Oscar Garcia as Watford boss
Monday 29 September 2014 15:11, UK
Oscar Garcia has stepped down as head coach of Watford and has been replaced by Billy McKinlay.
Garcia only joined Watford three weeks ago following the departure of Beppe Sannino.
But he has since suffered chest pains and spent a week recovering in hospital, and he has now opted to take an extended break.
The Spaniard, the former Brighton boss, helped in the selection process which resulted in McKinlay - who joined the coaching staff last week - being appointed with immediate effect.
A club statement read: “Oscar’s health is of no further cause for concern but he needs more time to rest and therefore, in consultation with the Hornets, he has decided it is in the club’s best interests for him to step down.
Garcia said: “I was closely involved with the appointment of Billy McKinlay, because I was aware that I may not be able to return.
“I always wanted an experienced British coach within our set-up, because it’s important to have that mix of cultures and experience with this squad.
“I would like to thank Watford’s fans for their kindness during my time here at the club. I will be hoping to see you all as a Premier League club next season.”
Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ, former Dundee United and Blackburn midfielder McKinlay said: "It's mixed emotions as obviously I was sorry to see Oscar go considering he was the one who offered me the job and appointed me.
"But on the other hand I am really excited. This is a good club, going in the right direction, and I am really looking forward to the job. The expectations here are high, there's a good infrastructure here and a good opportunity for me to do well."
Hornets’ CEO Scott Duxbury added: “Everyone feels it is important that there is continuity in the coaching structure. Ruben Martinez and Javier Pereira will therefore continue as Billy McKinlay’s assistants.
“We appreciate Oscar’s candour in placing the best interest of Watford FC ahead of his own personal thoughts and we wish him well for his future in football.
“In Billy McKinlay, we have someone with the qualities and significant experience to build further on the foundations already laid for a successful season ahead.”
