Marco Silva has become Watford manager

Former Hull City boss Marco Silva has officially joined Watford as their new head coach on a two-year deal.

The Portuguese will start his new job on July 1 after it was confirmed he will succeed Walter Mazzarri at Vicarage Road.

Hull confirmed on Wednesday that Silva had activated a clause in his contract which allowed him to leave his position as the club's head coach.

Silva was appointed as Hull boss in January following the sacking of Mike Phelan, with the club languishing in 20th place in the Premier League.

Silva, previously of Sporting Lisbon and Olympiakos, won eight of his 22 matches in charge of the Tigers, but was unable to prevent them from suffering relegation to the Sky Bet Championship.

"Marco was one of the most sought after head coaches in the Premier League," said Watford chairman Scott Duxbury.

"His pedigree and promise speaks for itself with his achievements in top divisions elsewhere across Europe, as well as his work at Hull City last season.

"We are delighted to have secured his services and to be welcoming a head coach of his profile and potential," he added.

Watford have been looking for a new first-team boss since confirming the departure of Mazzarri as head coach earlier this month.

The Italian was in charge of the Hornets for less than a year and was relieved of his duties following a run of 10 defeats in 14 matches.