Beppe Sannino has tendered his resignation as manager of Watford, bringing an end to a bizarre nine months in charge.

The Italian had become a highly controversial figure at Vicarage Road since taking over in December, with his management style questioned by senior players.

There had been growing talk that Sannino would be sacked a fortnight ago, but he was handed a reprieve before Sunday night's sensational turn.

It's all over! Beppe Sannino has tendered his resignation as manager of Watford

In developments to sum up his time at the club, the 57-year-old decided to call time on his association with the club after the Hornets beat Huddersfield 4-2 on Saturday.

The timing will come as a shock to supporters because - even though relationships within the club remained frosty - Sannino's record as boss was exemplary.

'I took over a very talented squad when I arrived - but they were boys in many ways', he said.

'I'm proud of what we have achieved and I have no doubt that the squad now, who look very much like men who know exactly what they must do, are very capable of getting promotion from this tough Championship league.

'I know I have given everything to Watford; I have given my heart and soul to the job and I have been happy to do this because of the wonderful support I have received from everyone - and most of all the fans, who are truly amazing.

'However I feel I have gone as far as I can so, for the benefit of me and the club, I feel the time is right for me to move on.'

Heading in the right direction: Watford have tied striker Troy Deeney down to a new contract

They have won four of the opening five games in this Championship season and flirted with the possibility of reaching the play-offs at the back end of the last campaign before tailing away.

Suggestions that Sannino's tenure would be briefly surfaced after Watford ended the season with four straight defeats.

They do, however, play an exuberant brand of football and - after tying down striker Troy Deeney to a new deal - appear to be going in one direction.

'I am convinced whoever will be in charge in the future will have everything ready for him to deliver the success that everyone at the club would wish for,' Sannino added.