Robinson replaced as Watford assistant while Sema exits

Zigor Aranalde, who worked under former Watford boss Javi Gracia, has rejoined the club to replace Paul Robinson (left) as assistant coach

Watford boss Tom Cleverley has made a backroom reshuffle, replacing first-team coach Paul Robinson with the Hornets' former assistant Zigor Aranalde.

Midlands-based Robinson, who joined as assistant coach in October, has taken a step back to an opposition analysis role because of "family considerations".

Aranalde, who worked under previous head coach Javi Gracia between January 2018 and September 2019, returns to Vicarage Road.

"I've got a huge amount of respect for Robbo's work and his commitment to our football club as a true Watford man," said Cleverley. "He's still very much part of our team for now - just not quite so visible to supporters on matchdays.

"Zigor's a guy I know very well – I worked with him for the best part of 18 months when he was part of Javi's staff. It was a very successful time in the club's history, something he and I touched upon when we spoke over a Zoom call. He's someone that can come in and give us further help in the areas we need."

Meanwhile, Watford have cancelled the contract of winger Ken Sema by mutual consent.

The 31-year-old Swedish winger made 176 appearances for the Hornets after signing from Ostersunds FK in July 2018 - the last of them in the 2-2 draw at Plymouth in late November.