Forest Green have expressed its disdain after revealing manager Rob Edwards has joined Watford.
Reports on Tuesday claimed Watford were in advanced talks to bring Edwards in as a replacement for current manager Roy Hodgson.
However, Rovers’ chairman tweeted no knowledge of the approach and in a statement on the club’s website this afternoon, the League Two champions fired a strong riposte towards the relegated Premier League outfit, by saying: “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.”
A former Wolves defender, Edwards,39, who led Forest Green Rovers to the League Two title last week, replaced Mark Cooper last summer, having previously coached England’s youth teams.
The statement continued: “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 thank Rob for all his work at FGR – forgive him the manner of his departure and wish him well.”
When quizzed about his future last Thursday, Edwards said: “I’ve got an opportunity to work in League One with Forest Green Rovers – and I’m extremely proud of that. I definitely see us being here for the first game of next season.”
Forest Green assistant manager Richie Kyle has also left the club and is expected to join Edwards at Vicarage Road.
More to follow.
