Watford announced the most surprising managerial decisions of the season so far when they decided to sack Marco Silva this morning.The Hertfordshire club had been flying at the start of the season and were early contenders for a finish in the Europa League places, but a series of disappointing results have seen them fall off the pace.Yesterday's 2-0 defeat was another poor result, with that defeat meaning they have only tasted victory once in their past 11 league matches.However, with Watford still 10th in the league, Silva was still doing a decent job at the club, despite his side's poor form.And even he was not concerned about his job security, claiming after their defeat yesterday: "I don't lose my focus in these types of situations, my focus is in my work, I know why I came here, I know what they asked me, I know what I want for our team, for our club, I don't lose my focus."But despite this, the 40-year-old was sacked this morning, just eight months after he took the job.

PUNDITS BELIEVE WATFORD'S DECISION IS BAFFLING

As already stated, it could be argued that Silva was in fact doing a great job with Watford - especially so given the fact the Hornets narrowly escaped relegation last season why they finished 17th.

And many big names surrounding the Premier League have already expressed their disbelief at Watford's decision, including Gary Lineker.

The Match of the Day presenter claimed that their decision was 'absurd', and that Watford will 'almost certainly get someone less talented' to replace him.

He then went on to attack Watford, claiming that they 'lose managers or fire them every season.'

Well said, Gary. At 40-years-old, Marco Silva was one of the most talented managers in Premier League football.

He did a terrific job at Hull last season as he nearly pulled off a miracle in helping save the club from relegation, and his record at Watford was also very positive.

MICHAEL OWEN ALSO WEIGHS IN WITH HIS OPINION

Michael Owen also shared his opinion, which was very alike to the one advocated by Lineker.

Owen stated how the decision came as a 'surprise', and sarcastically wished Watford luck in finding a better replacement.

SILVA'S REPLACEMENT HAS ALREADY BEEN DECIDED

Watford have moved swiftly to fill the vacant manager's position, with Javi Gracia reportedly the man ready to replace Silva.

The Spaniard left Rubin Kazan in June, and is expected to be announced later on this week.