The Watford Supporters Trust released this statement following the events at Vicarage Road this week:

"The Watford Supporters Trust would like to thank Rob Edwards and his staff for their work at and commitment to Watford FC over the past few months. In particular, we appreciate their clear efforts to rebuild the connection between supporters and the club and its players.

"We also welcome Slaven Bilić and wish him the best of success at Watford.

"The Trust is deeply disappointed by Watford’s decision to fire Edwards at this time and feels it reflects broader issues within the club that must be addressed.

"This past summer, the club told supporters that it accepted it had to change and saw Edwards as the man to lead that process. Many supporters felt reassured by these statements and welcomed the prospect of stable, sustainable progress under a young, ambitious head coach, particularly after a second relegation in three years and the past promise of lessons learned.

"Just a few months later, there are again significant questions about the club’s long-term strategy and model. This includes the ability to identify and support head coaches, the approach for recruitment and player development, the roles of its leadership team and their external contacts, and the commitment to improve and restore Watford’s club culture. These are not new issues, so it is particularly unsatisfactory that they remain unsolved.

"Since the current owner took over in 2012, Watford has enjoyed Premier League football, benefitted from a transformed Vicarage Road, and experienced greater financial stability than in the prior decade. We greatly appreciate this period of success and the special memories it has created, and hope for even more in the future. 

"The relationship between supporters and their club is based on shared trust, respect and transparency. Sadly, uncertainty and volatility on and off the pitch are fuelling a growing level of frustration and discontent amongst some supporters. We strongly encourage Watford’s owner and leadership to listen to supporters’ feedback through all channels, take swift action to address it, and communicate directly to supporters on how real, lasting change will be made at the club."

You can contact the Watford Supporters Trust on Twitter (@WFCSuppTrust) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WatfordFCSupportersTrust)