Watford FC have parted company with two senior members of staff. According to reports, first team coach David Hockaday and assistant Academy manager Chris Cummins were both sacked this week.

Previously youth team coach at Vicarage Road, Hockaday was promoted by Aidy Boothroyd to first team coach when he became manager. Although popular at the club, Watford's perilous position at the bottom of the Premiership table, ten points from safety, is thought to have led to his sacking.

Cummins was one of Watford's longest serving members of staff. As assistant Academy manager to David Dodds he oversaw the early careers of many current first team regulars including Ashley Young, Lloyd Doyley and Richard Lee.

The 34-year-old defender Malky Mackay, who scored twice in Watford's 4-1 win against Stockport County last week, has now become player-coach at the Vicarage Road club.

Iain Moody from Watford FC Watford Football Club said a structural review of backroom coaching staff was being carried out by manager Aidy Boothroyd. He said: "At this stage, the club is unable to comment on any specifics of the review. As soon as that situation changes, we will be releasing further information."