Watford's Deeney denies rumors of Pearson punch-up

Watford captain Troy Deeney is rejecting reports of a fistfight involving manager Nigel Pearson during halftime of Sunday's loss to West Ham.

Pearson was dismissed following the 3-1 loss at the London Stadium that left the Hornets dangling perilously close to the drop zone with two matches left. Reports later surfaced alleging the fiery gaffer participated in a locker room skirmish.

"I've heard and seen some stuff online this last 24 hours that has made me giggle but also worry about people's lack of intelligence," Deeney told beIN Sports.

"The gaffer didn't put his hands on anybody, he was just frustrated and had a firm talking to us," Deeney added. "No one was fighting, no one was punched, tickled, and there were no hands thrown."

Former Leicester City boss Pearson replaced Quique Sanchez Flores in early December to become the third full-time Watford manager this season. Pearson swiftly guided the Hornets to a run of form that included a victory over previously unbeaten Liverpool.

Hayden Mullins and head of goalkeeping Graham Stack will take charge of Watford for their remaining two fixtures against Manchester City and Arsenal.

Deeney was also quick to dispel speculation that he would be involved in squad decisions going forward. "Troy will not be picking teams because I have read that as well," Deeney said. "I am player-coach apparently."

Watford could ensure their Premier League safety on Tuesday contingent on two results. The Hornets welcome City to Vicarage Road while clinging to a three-point buffer ahead of 18th-placed Aston Villa, who host Arsenal later in the evening at Villa Park.