Slavisa Jokanovic says it was his decision to hire Watford legend Nigel Gibbs as one of his assistant – although he wouldn’t confirm the appointment.

The Watford Observer revealed on Friday night that Gibbs, who made 491 appearances for the Hornets, was set to rejoin the club as an assistant coach.

The Golden Boys refused to comment on the matter after the 5-0 victory at Fulham on Friday and Jokanovic would also not confirm Gibbs’ pending arrival.

However he did state: “It is good to get an English guy on our staff because we are in England and I need somebody who speaks the English language. We want somebody who will support us (the staff), the players and the club.

“I don’t want to speak about names. This is my staff and I will make the decision.”

Watford’s owner Gino Pozzo and the club’s senior management were keen to add a British assistant to the staff when Oscar Garcia was hired in September.

The club suggested Billy McKinlay to Garcia and he agreed. McKinlay went on to replace Garcia following his shock resignation but only lasted eight days after Pozzo had a change of heart and decided to hire Jokanovic.

Similarly, it is believed Gibbs was highlighted as a potential assistant coach to Jokanovic.

Gibbs has been out of work since the start of August due to a legal dispute with former employers Leeds United, where he was assistant, after what he deemed to be a breach of contract.

The 49-year-old came through the academy at Watford and played 491 times for the club in all competitions. He went on to be the Hornets' chief scout, reserve team manager and assistant manager.

Gibbs left Watford after more than two decades of service in 2005. He was at Reading between 2006 and March 2013 as first team coach and a month later reunited with Brian McDermott at Leeds United, where he remained for more than a year.