Boothroyd New Boss At Watford

The 34-year-old will take over at Vicarage Road following Ray Lewington's surprise exit last week.

Boothroyd, a former Hearts and Bristol Rovers defender, has signed a 12-month rolling contract and Keith Burkinshaw has been named as his number two.

Nigel Gibbs, who had been acting as temporary manager following Lewington's departure has been also been named in Boothroyd's back room staff while reserve team manager David Hockaday is to retain his position.

Announcing the news today, Watford chairman Graham Simpson said: "The board were unanimous in recognising Adrian's potential to become a great new, young manager.

"His knowledge of the game, understanding of players and tactical judgement shone through during our discussions, leaving the board in no doubt as to who they felt was the best man to take the club forward."

Boothroyd, whose playing career was ended by injury at the age of 26 while at Peterborough United, holds a Uefa 'A' coaching certificate.

He began his coaching career at Peterborough's academy before taking over as youth team coach at Norwich in 2001.

He then went on to become youth development manager at West Brom in 2003 before joining Kevin Blackwell's coaching staff at Leeds last summer.