Former AFC Telford boss and Wolves defender Rob Edwards leaves Forest Green Rovers

Edwards, 39, has just won the League Two title with Forest Green Rovers in his first season at the club, and is now the favourite to take over the Hornets with Roy Hodgson leaving the club.

It emerged on Wednesday afternoon that Edwards had left Rovers - with the club saying talks with Watford took place behind their backs, and hit out saying they were disappointed their loyalty has been repaid in this way.

The statement said: "Rob was a key part of the team that gained promotion to League One this season.

"We're disappointed that our support, loyalty and honesty towards Rob has been repaid in this way - with negotiations taking place behind our backs.

"We had no contact from Watford, from whom we might expect less, but in any event this kind of behaviour gives football a bad name.

"We thank Rob for all his work at FGR - forgive him the manner of his departure and wish him well."

Edwards, who began his career at Villa and played more than 100 times for Wolves, as well as a small loan spell at Shrewsbury Town, began his coaching career in the academy at Molineux.

He served as an interim boss as well before taking over at AFC Telford United for a season where, despite some having high hopes, they finished in the bottom half of the table.

Edwards left to return to Wolves U23s before a spell with the England youth sides followed. Edwards then surprisingly joined Forest Green last summer and led them to the title.

John Eustice had been in the frame for the job but after talks broke down Edwards has now become the front runner.