Watford Close to Hiring Edward Still as New Manager

Watford football club is getting ready to hire Edward Still as their new coach. He is the brother of Will Still. The club hopes he can help them do better in their games.
By Newsroom | Football, England |

The Championship club Watford is poised to appoint Edward Still, brother of former manager Will Still, as their new head coach. This move follows the recent resignation of Javi Gracia and comes at a point when Watford is striving to improve its league standing. The club has been in pursuit of a new manager since Gracia departed early in February, concluding a brief second tenure. The potential appointment of Edward Still has generated discussion, particularly given his recent coaching record and his familial connection to a well-known figure in football management.

Watford bizarrely set to appoint Will Still's BROTHER (who has won two of his last 26 games and not managed since 2023) - 1

Watford's search for a new manager has been underway since Javi Gracia resigned on February 2nd. Gracia's departure marked the end of his second spell at the club, which lasted just over three months. This instability at the managerial helm has occurred during a season where Watford has seen fluctuating performance, impacting their push for a playoff position. As of recent reports, the club sits 11th in the Championship table, three points adrift of sixth place. The club hierarchy appears to be seeking a decisive appointment to guide them through the remainder of the season.

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Watford bizarrely set to appoint Will Still's BROTHER (who has won two of his last 26 games and not managed since 2023) - 2

  • February 2nd: Javi Gracia resigns as Watford manager.

  • Ongoing: Watford actively searches for a replacement.

  • Current: Edward Still emerges as the leading candidate.

Edward Still's Background and Coaching Record

Edward Still, older brother of former Southampton manager Will Still, is reportedly set to take on the role at Watford. He has recently resigned from his position at Anderlecht, where he served as an assistant coach. Prior to his role at Anderlecht, Still worked alongside his brother at RC Lens. Information regarding his managerial experience highlights a recent period where his teams have secured two wins out of their last 26 games. He has not held a primary managerial position since 2023. His impending appointment at Watford is being described by some observers as a "gamble" and a "leftfield" choice.

Watford bizarrely set to appoint Will Still's BROTHER (who has won two of his last 26 games and not managed since 2023) - 3

  • Family Ties: Brother of Will Still, former manager of Southampton.

  • Recent Role: Assistant coach at Anderlecht.

  • Previous Association: Worked with Will Still at RC Lens.

  • Recent Performance: Two wins in last 26 games as coach.

  • Managerial Absence: Has not managed since 2023.

Watford's Current League Position and Performance

Watford's current season has been marked by inconsistency, which has affected their pursuit of a playoff spot. Sitting 11th in the Championship, the team is looking to regain momentum. Their recent form has seen them drop points, contributing to their current standing. The club’s hierarchy has been noted for backing managerial appointments, but the continuous change at the top suggests a desire for a more stable and successful period. The club's ambition for a playoff finish remains, making the upcoming managerial decision critical for their season's outcome.

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Watford bizarrely set to appoint Will Still's BROTHER (who has won two of his last 26 games and not managed since 2023) - 4

  • League Standing: 11th in the Championship.

  • Playoff Hopes: Three points behind the playoff places.

  • Performance Trend: Inconsistent results impacting league position.

Potential Appointment Process and Timing

Reports indicate that Edward Still is expected to travel to England on February 9th to finalize personal terms with Watford. This suggests that negotiations are in advanced stages, and an announcement of his appointment could be imminent, potentially on the same day. The club's swift action to secure a new manager points to a clear objective to address the managerial vacancy promptly.

  • Travel: Edward Still expected in England on February 9th.

  • Objective: To finalize personal terms with Watford.

  • Anticipated Announcement: Potential announcement on the same day as arrival.

Club History and Managerial Turnover

Watford's recent history has been characterized by a degree of managerial turnover. The impending arrival of Edward Still would make him the third manager of the season for the Hornets. This pattern of frequent managerial changes raises questions about the club's long-term strategy and stability. The club's ownership, led by Gino Pozzo, has previously shown willingness to make swift decisions regarding coaching staff, as evidenced by the re-appointment and subsequent departure of Javi Gracia.

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  • Third Manager: Edward Still would be the third manager this season.

  • Ownership Actions: Gino Pozzo's history of managerial changes.

  • Stability Concerns: Frequent turnover raises questions about long-term strategy.

Expert and Media Reactions

The potential appointment has drawn varied commentary. Some sources describe it as a "gamble" and a "leftfield" decision, possibly due to Still's recent coaching record. There has also been mention of unusual activity, such as Wikipedia vandalism related to the managerial speculation, suggesting a notable public reaction to the unfolding situation. Media outlets are closely following the developments, highlighting the surprise nature of the potential hire.

  • Media Descriptors: "Gamble," "leftfield choice."

  • Public Reaction: Mention of Wikipedia vandalism associated with speculation.

  • Reporting Focus: Surprise at the potential appointment given background.

Conclusion and Implications

Watford appears to be on the verge of appointing Edward Still as their new head coach. The decision comes after Javi Gracia's resignation and amid Watford's efforts to climb the Championship table. Still's background, including his recent performance metrics and familial connection to Will Still, positions this appointment as a noteworthy development. The club's immediate focus will be on finalizing terms and integrating the new manager into the squad to achieve their season objectives. The implications of this "gamble" on Watford's performance and future direction will likely unfold in the coming months.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Edward Still?
Edward Still is the brother of former manager Will Still. He is set to become the new coach for Watford FC.
Q: Why is Watford looking for a new manager?
The previous manager, Javi Gracia, left the club on February 2nd. Watford wants someone new to help them win more.
Q: How has Edward Still's recent coaching record been?
Reports say that teams he coached recently won only two out of their last 26 games. He has not been the main manager since 2023.
Q: Where is Watford in the league?
Watford is currently 11th in the Championship league. They are trying to get into the top spots to play more games.