Javi Gracia has voiced his surprise after being abruptly sacked by Watford and replaced by former manager Quique Flores on Saturday.

The club confirmed over the weekend that Gracia had been relieved from his position and announced the return of Flores 30 minutes later.

Gracia guided Watford to an 11th-place finish and an FA Cup final last season, only to receive the axe after losing three of his opening four games for the 2019-20 campaign.

In an official statement released on Sunday, Gracia said: "After the unexpected announcement about the termination of my contract after only four matches, I want to express my surprise after completing the best season in Watford's history.

"I respect this decision and I'd like to reassure that the excellent relationship I have with Gino Pozzo and Filippo Giraldi, and this is not going to change despite my abrupt exit of the club.

"I am grateful to this club for allowing me to manage this great club in the Premier League, it has been an incredible experience with very special moments like the FA Cup final I had the privilege to enjoy."

Flores, his replacement, managed the club over the 2015-16 season, finishing 13th in the table on 45 points, before a mutual decision was made to terminate his employment at Vicarage Road.

Gracia's 18-month stint with the Hornets makes him the first Watford manager since 2013 to last more than one season at the club.