'It's been quite turbulent' - Cleverley

Tom Cleverley states his relationship with Watford CEO Scott Duxbury is "fantastic" in what has been a "turbulent" time as manager.

Cleverley's comments came after the Hornets lost to Frank Lampard's Coventry City 2-1 on Saturday despite a spirited fightback.

That was on the back a statement from Watford on Friday night dismissing reports in Spain that he was set to be replaced as "pure speculation", while on Saturday owner Gino Pozzo delivered his public support for the head coach.

"It's been quite turbulent – I'm quite good at not taking things to heart, good or bad," Cleverley told BBC Three Counties Radio.

"Scott Duxbury has been a supporter of mine, we have a fantastic relationship and he's always backed me.

"My job is just to focus on the team and I know Scott will always back me."

Former Watford player Cleverley was appointed permanently in April 2024 following Valerien Ismael's sacking by the Watford board, that includes Duxbury.

The 35-year-old had lost just one of his first seven matches in charge as interim boss and guided the Hertfordshire club to 15th last season, safe from relegation.

But speculation surrounding Cleverley's future at Vicarage Road has ramped up the last 48 hours and his side's latest defeat, their fifth in seven games, will not have eased the pressure or the focus on his position.

"I'm in an industry where poor results will bring speculation around my job," Cleverley added.

"That doesn't scare me one bit, I'm determined, resilient and ready to work harder than ever and fight.

"I got into this because I'm passionate about developing players and that's what I want to concentrate on."