Former Watford head coach Slavisa Jokanovic has returned to work after being appointed as boss of Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The 46-year-old Serbian becomes the second former Hornets coach to join Israel’s most decorated club after Oscar Garcia’s season-long stint prior to his appointment at Vicarage Road.

Jokanovic was replaced by Quique Sanchez Flores nine days ago after failing to agree a contract extension with the Hornets, owing to his wage demands.

Owner Mitch Goldhar told the club’s website: “We are extremely pleased to secure the services of Slavisa especially after his recent success and the obvious interest of other clubs after his successful campaign in the English Championship.

“He is an experienced coach and is equipped to take Maccabi to the next stage of the club’s development. There is no doubt that his playing career including international appearances and his managerial roles since 2007 will assist Maccabi in both our domestic and European challenges.

“Slavisa was highly recommended and a stand out from a number of other candidates having made a real impression on club management.”

Jokanovic, who was appointed as Billy McKinlay's successor on October 7, won 21 of his 36 games in charge of the Golden Boys, overseeing promotion to the Premier League as Championship runners-up.