Watford launch official complaint against Everton

According to 'Sky Sports', the two clubs have failed to reach a solution in the toxic dispute, despite an intermediary meeting instigated by the Premier League.

Watford are enraged over Everton's continuous attempts to court Silva, and refused to facilitate talks between the two. Silva's record at Watford then took a nose dive and he was dismissed from the club.

The Hornets said in a statement: ''The club is convinced the appointment of Silva was the right one and had it not been for the unwarrented approach by a Premier League rival for his services, we would have continued to prosper under his leadership.''

With the altercation having played out over four months with no resolution, the Premier League are likely to have to step in. They can enforce any number of sanctions, from fines to point deductions. Although it seems most likely that the Toffees will be asked to cough up a suitable compensation figure.

The news comes as Everton have sacked their manager Sam Allardyce, who had taken over Ronald Kroeman's role, and are reportedly once more considering Silva for the top job.