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Valerien Ismael: Watford name ex-Barnsley and West Brom boss as new head coach

Watford have appointed former Barnsley and West Brom boss Valerien Ismael as their new head coach.

The 47-year-old replaces Chris Wilder, appointed in March on a short-term deal through to the end of the season.

Under Wilder, the Hornets finished 11th in the Championship, six points adrift of the play-off places.

Ismael was most recently with Turkish club Besiktas, having been appointed by them just a month after being sacked by West Brom in February 2022.

"Being able to appoint a new coach so soon in May means we can prepare very well together for next season," said Watford's technical director Ben Manga.