Watford were building in the right direction to achieve promotion to the Premier League, according to sacked boss Paulo Pezzolano.

The Uruguayan has been replaced by the returning Javi Gracia at Vicarage Road, having taken charge of only 10 games.

In a parting message to supporters on social media, , externalPezzolano says he was confident of delivering a return to the top flight.

"After months of intense work at every level, the results showed that we were building in the right direction to reach our goal of returning to the Premier League this season, with a squad capable of achieving it," he said.

"We had full confidence in that and a firm belief that we could do it, always staying true to our principles."

The former Real Valladolid head coach goes on to thank his players and club staff for their work during his time with the Hornets.