Watford have sacked manager Slaven Bilic – and have brought in Chris Wilder on a deal until the end of the season.

The Hornets have won just one of their last eight Championship games, including a 1-1 draw with Rovers last month, but are just four points outside of the play-off spots in ninth position.

Bilic is the second manager sacked by Watford this season, with Rob Edwards, now at Luton Town, having lost his job after just 11 games following his appointment in the summer.

Indeed, Watford are now looking for their 18th different permanent manager in 11 years.

Wilder, who left Middlesbrough earlier this season, has taken over on a temporary deal, with 11 games of the season remaining.

Technical director Ben Manga said of the decision: “We are all ambitious to succeed this season, so something new is needed quickly while the opportunity of promotion is still real.

“With the January transfer window over, to change coach is the only option available to re-energise for the final games ahead.”

The club statement added: “The board of directors wishes to place on record its thanks to Slaven for his work during his time at the club.”

Bilic, who guided West Bromwich Albion to promotion from the Championship in 2019/20, lasted 26 games at Vicarage Road, winning 10.

Wilder has been out of work since losing his job at the Riverside in October, but did enjoy success in the division when winning promotion with the Blades in 2018/19.