Statement Regarding Malky Mackay’s Appointment As Watford Manager

The board of the Watford Supporters Trust (WST) would like to congratulate Malky Mackay following his appointment as Watford manager. In the 4 years that Malky has been at Watford, he has been a wonderful servant as player, coach, and also as caretaker manager in the period that he had in that role prior to the appointment of his predecessor. As a player, his leadership skills were apparent on the field and those qualities were greatly missed when he hung up his boots. His move into coaching gave him the opportunity to spend some time as reserve team manager helping the development of players such as Ross Jenkins and Liam Henderson as they made the transition from youth football. He also spent this time working on his coaching badges in preparation for making the step-up to the manager’s position. Following the departure of Aidy Boothroyd, Malky took over the caretaker role and, in that short period, he impressed Watford fans as he brought some stability back to the club at a very difficult time. The performances were encouraging, the style of football enjoyable and the impression was that the players wanted to play for him.

Malky knows Watford inside out, both in the footballing sense and in relation to the town as a whole. He has settled with his family in the area and knows the ethos of the club and the importance of its role in the community. It was particularly pleasing to hear his references to this side of his role in his first press conference. After the turmoil at the club over the past year, his appointment allows some feeling of continuity as the board and the management build for the future.

Malky is an intelligent and articulate man, who is well respected in the football world. In his time at Watford, he has earned the affection and the respect of both the players and the Vicarage Road faithful. We wish Malky a long, happy and successful reign as the Watford manager.