Watford assistant coach Dean Austin says he no longer thinks about becoming a manager but knows he can’t rule it out.

The Hemel Hempstead-born 45-year-old rejoined the Hornets in January after serving as Brendan Rodgers’ assistant during the 2008/09 season.

But having not held the top job in the decade since he was manager of Farnborough Town, Austin doesn’t foresee a return to the hot-seat any time soon.

He said: “When I took that job at Farnborough I saw myself being a manager.

“Since then I’ve done almost every job within the coaching structure of a club.

“I’ve coached the kids, under-21s, been a chief scout and I’ve been an assistant manager.

“Now I don’t really think about managing a club. I just think about trying to do the best I can in whatever role I am in.

“I can always learn more, be positive and have a smile on my face. Being happy is the most important thing.

“I like to think since I’ve come back to Watford I’ve helped create a positive atmosphere,” he continued. “You never say never in football because you don’t know what is around the corner.”

Having coached Under-21 sides before, Austin is well placed to discuss the challenges facing current under-21 coach Harry Kewell.

“He is trying to improve something that is very new. His role is very difficult,” admitted Austin.

“It’s a very difficult role. You just have to learn to be adaptable.

“The way you’re judged in that role is getting players into the first team. You want to win but you want to see players learning and improving.

“That is what you’re trying to do. You’re guiding these young men in the world of football.”