Watford have sacked head coach Slaven Bilic after less than six months in charge.

The 54-year-old former Croatian international’s last game was the underwhelming 0-0 draw with Preston on Saturday, a result that left them three places and four points off a play-off slot in the Championship.

The Hornets have won just three games since Christmas, and picked up only 14 points from a possible 36.

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

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

Bilic took over as head coach in September, replacing Rob Edwards who was shown the door after just 10 league games.

The Croat has won 10 of his 26 matches in charge and the Hornets have only the 14th best record in terms of league results since the end of the World Cup break in December.

The players and football staff had a day off yesterday, but Bilic took training at London Colney today.

There are strong reports that former Sheffield United and Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder is set to take over.