Taylor has experienced a remarkable turnaround after being England manager

Supported wholeheartedly by chairman Sir Elton John, the former England boss, who remains the only man to lead Watford into the top flight, set about recreating the glories of yesteryear.

Taylor's formidable reputation, founded at Vicarage Road more than 20 years ago, was torn to shreds on the international scene, but the victory over Bolton in the First Division play-off final crowned a brave fightback.

When Taylor returned as general manager two years ago, any repeat of Watford's glory days seemed far-fetched.

The Hornets had stormed through the leagues, into the top flight in 1982, finished runners-up to Liverpool in 1983, ventured into Europe a year later and then onto Wembley and an FA Cup final.

Taylor left for Villa after 10 years at the club and when he returned in May 1997 they were languishing in Division Two.

Confounded the critics

Together with coach Kenny Jacket, a trusted foot-soldier from his first spell at the club, Taylor guided Watford to the Second Division championship immediately and followed that by sneaking into a First Division play-off place.

Watford's play-off win put them back in the top flight after more than 10 years

Watford's late surge came just when the bubble seemed to have burst. The Hornets were buzzing in early-season but lost the impetus in the New Year.

They were booed off at Vicarage Road in March after a goalless draw against struggling Bury.

But a dramatic late surge in form proved enough to claim a place in the top six.

How things have changed. With relatively little money to spend, Taylor has built a team who have confounded the critics and exceeded the expectations of their fans.

Whether they can stay in the top flight is another question.

But no-one can deny Taylor a wry smile for achieving a remarkable comeback against all the odds.