Wilkins sacked

By Paul Holmes
June 12 2002

Ray Wilkins has been sacked as assistant manager of Watford after just 1 year in the job.

It is believed that the decision was part of a cost-cutting scheme. In a statement on the clubs offical website more redundancies are planned for the coaching team

"The exact details of how many other staff are involved and who they are will be announced in due course".

Wilkins would not say much and only gave a short speach.

"It is difficult for me to speak at this time".

The cost-cutting plan may have worried a few players and midfielder Gavin Mahon spoke out at the actions claiming Wilkins was not given enough time.

I am very surprised and it is very sad. He signed a three-year contract to take us into the Premiership and he's only had one season to do it."

"It is strange because you would have thought that the coaching staff are very important and perhaps there are other areas where cuts can be made.

"It is a shame because all of the lads get on well with him and he is a very good coach. I don't know where this leaves Gianluca.

"I wasn't aware the club was in financial trouble when I came here so it's all news to me.

"There were a few clubs interested in me but one of the main reasons I joined was because of the financial backing here.

"I understand the club has to cut back and there are a lot of clubs in the same situation - everyone is struggling to survive."