Nigel Pearson set to be fourth manager sacked by Watford this season

Nigel Pearson, manager of Watford, watches the Premier League game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in London, England, July 4, 2020. /VCG

Premier League strugglers Watford are expected to sack manager Nigel Pearson on Sunday with just two games left in the season, according to the BBC.

Two days earlier Watford lost to West Ham United 3-1, leaving the club only three points above the relegation zone. According to the Daily Mail, that loss contributed to the club's decision to remove Pearson. The club's two remaining games are against Manchester City and Arsenal.

Pearson was the fourth manager fired by Watford this season. "Ridiculous decision by #watfordfc to get rid of Nigel Pearson and Craig Shakespeare now. Brought spirit and belief back, some good results, revived hope of staying up. Madness," Henry Winter of The Times tweeted.

Declan Rice of West Ham United celebrates after scoring a goal in the Premier League game against Watford at the London Stadium in London, England, July 17, 2020. /VCG

According to The Athletic, Hayden Mullins, who was the caretaker manager last December before Pearson arrived, will work together with Graham Stack to coach the team for the last two games this season.

Before Pearson took over, Watford had been at the bottom end of Premier League for most of the season. Since lifting the club out of the relegation zone and defeating Liverpool did not help Pearson keep his job, whoever takes over next season better be prepared to face high standards.