The Hornets' sports scientist Matt Springham has decided to leave the club in favour of fellow Championship side Brighton and Hove Albion, the Watford Observer understands.

Springham joined Watford in September 2010 and was in charge of ensuring the players were prepared for training and matches, as well as arranging individual training programmes.

We were first made aware of Springham's pending departure on Friday and Zola confirmed he has now left the Hornets.

Zola said: "That is correct. He has made his decision because he wanted to go to work somewhere else. I respect his decision completely and we are thankful for what he has done for us.

"I am also very thankful to him personally because he has helped me a lot so far this season."

Zola said he was not sure which club Springham would be joining but we understand it will be Brighton.

Watford still have a head of medical in Marco Cesarini, head of rehabilitation in Giorgio Gasparini and assistant fitness coach Ben Dixon.

When asked if the club would be hiring a direct replacement for Springham, Zola replied: "We are assessing and evaluating the situation."

Springham was born in Watford and grew up in the area. He went to school in Bushey before completing an undergraduate degree in Sports and Exercise Science at Hertfordshire University.

He subsequently attained a Masters in Human Performance Science at Brunel University.