Billy McKinlay has admitted that he has "mixed emotions" over replacing Oscar Garcia as Watford head coach.
The former Scotland midfielder took charge of the Championship club on Monday after Garcia was forced to step down due to health concerns.
McKinlay, who retired from playing in 2005, joined Watford last week as part of the Spaniard's coaching setup.
Despite the "bittersweet" nature of his appointment at Vicarage Road, the 45-year-old has praised Garcia for his decision to leave.
"I had mixed emotions. It was Oscar who brought me here. I was 100% shocked," he told BBC Sport. "I know he has been recovering well and I expected that recovery to continue and he would be back in business as soon as possible. So it's bittersweet almost.
"It's a brave decision from Oscar. He's put the club's interests as a very high priority. I have a lot of respect for that."
McKinlay will manage Watford for the first time on Tuesday when they host Brentford in the Championship.
Jack Prescott
