Cardiff City turn to Malky Mackay

Watford are battling to hold on to Malky Mackay after receiving an official approach for the former Celt from Cardiff City.

Following the sackings of Dave Jones and Billy Davies Mackay is the longest serving manager in the Championship after just two seasons in the Watford hotseat.

Despite having one of the lowest budgets in the division Mackay has steered Watford to two mid-table finishes and spent more than a decade playing in the Championship.

Cardiff were in talks with Alan Shearer about the vacancy but have turned their attention to Mackay who signed a three year contract in March.

That contract is almost certain to contain a get out clause but the Watford board are determined to do all that they can to retain their manager.

Watford owner Laurence Bassini said: “I rejected the approach – and hope our fans understand that I now need to consult with Graham Taylor and the board of directors.”

The wording of that statement seems to contradict itself with former England boss Traynor attempting to clarify the matter.

He added: “I support the statement made by the club’s new owner. He now wishes to speak to all members of the Watford board over this matter and that will happen over the next few days, whether that is via a board meeting or done on an individual basis.

“The truth of the matter is that we are essentially telling Cardiff to hold fire for the moment. I do believe this is the right way to go about things.”

Since the season ended Watford have sold the divisions top scorer, Danny Graham, to Swansea for £3.5m, a £3.3m profit on the fee Mackay paid Carlisle for the striker.

Cardiff have reached the play-offs in each of the last two seasons but have been forced to look on as Swansea became the first Welsh side to reach the Premiership.

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