Nottingham Forest head coach Sabri Lamouchi is said to have rejected an approach from Watford to take up their vacant managerial post.

The Hornets are on the lookout for a new manager after sacking Quique Sanchez Flores, and Lamouchi was yesterday listed at 20/1 for the job, in SkyBet’s odds.

According to French newspaper L’Equipe, Lamouchi “was asked by Watford, 20th in the Premier League, in recent hours”, adding, the former midfielder “pushed (them) back”.

The Hornets axed Sanchez Flores following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Southamton, with the club rock bottom of the Premier League table on eight points from 14 games - six points from safety.

When the top-flight side announced his departure, they said: “The appointment of a new head coach is imminent, and with nearly two-thirds of the season remaining, we will provide all the support necessary to make the coming months successful.”

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L’Equipe say, in a translated interview: “After sacking Quique Flores this weekend, the leaders of Watford, currently 20th in the Premier League, contacted the former midfield(er) to offer him the job.

“In the spirit of the Watford board, Lamouchi, beyond his experience at the top level, has demonstrated at this beginning of the season, his ability to achieve consistent results despite a relatively modest workforce.

"Launched in an operation mounted with Forest, Lamouchi, very popular with local fans, is not seen leaving the club in these conditions. He told the decision makers in Watford."

Frenchman Lamouchi has overseen a charge to fourth place in the Championship table since arriving at the City Ground in June.

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