Watford have this afternoon finally signed off a compensation package with former head of business operations Michael Jones, who has left after 16 years at the club.

Jones rose up the ranks from a ticket office worker to head of the department and eventually became head of business operations, where he was deputy to former chief executive Julian Winter.

Jones, who is a Watford fan, stopped working for the club shortly before the season started but the Hornets have only this afternoon signed off the compromise agreement after months of talks.

A club statement has been released stating Jones has left by 'mutual consent' but he was asked to leave by the club's board.

Bassini has told the Watford Observer that he felt the club no longer needed a chief executive or head of business as he was now involved with the club on a day-to-day basis and, along with the board, making decisions.

Jones has been given 'redundancy pay' and also two season tickets by the club.

Bassini said: “I want Michael to feel he is always welcome here because he has given 15 years of his life to Watford.”

The Watford owner said he would be meeting Jones next week for lunch and even added that he wouldn't rule out the club's former head of business returning in the future.

The Hornets statement included a comment from Bassini which read: "Watford Football Club will always be very grateful for the loyal and committed service that Michael has given the club over a lengthy period.”

"I wish him every success in the future," Bassini added.