SUGGESTIONS that a boardroom bust-up led to the shock departures of Jimmy and Vince Russo from the Watford board have been fuelled after the former directors claimed they were removed "without any justification".

In a joint statement, the brothers reportedly said: "Our concerns have been and remain the best interests of Watford Football Club and its supporters.

"Our removal from the board is completely contrary to our wishes and without any justification whatsoever.

"We have been long-term supporters financially and generally of the club. It comes as a complete shock that the board should see fit to take this act at such a critical stage of the club's history."

Meanwhile, the chairman of Watford Supporters Trust has appealed to the Russos, who joined the Hornets board in 2004, or the club to reveal more behind the reasons why the brothers were "removed" as directors yesterday (Tuesday) to help end the speculation circulating among fans.

"It is unhelpful that we do not know why because rumour and speculation will only increase and those with the loudest voices will get the most press coverage," Graham Sterry told the Watford Observer this morning. "We are endeavouring to ascertain the reasons from both parties."