The 35-year-old swapped his role as reserve team manager at Stamford Bridge for the manager's post at Vicarage Road on Monday and watched from the stands as his new side were held to a 1-1 draw at Bristol City last night.

That left the Hornets in 21st place in the table and Rodgers is unlikely to be handed funds to spend in the January transfer window.

But he insists he is ready for the challenge of working on a shoestring, a far cry from the riches of west London.

"That was part of the challenge," Rodgers said. "I've been at a club with every resource that I possibly wanted but I know the reality of football isn't like that.

"I have the opportunity to build something here.

"I've been told very openly and honestly the current situation and there was no need for me to come here if it wasn't right.

"Over the last 15 years I've been preparing for this moment. I've had chances to leave Chelsea but for me to leave one of the biggest clubs in the world it had to be a fantastic opportunity.

"After speaking to the chairman, Graham Simpson, I thought this was it. It's a club with a wonderful history and it was an opportunity too big to turn down."

The Hornets parted company with Adrian Boothroyd at the beginning of the month and Rodgers is keen to change the club's style of play.

Boothroyd earned a reputation for achieving results through direct football but Rodgers is determined to bring in a passing style.

He added: "The squad here is very good. The cycle Watford have been in for four or five years has come to an end and now is time for change.

"It is my chance to come in with a different philosophy. I am a different tactician and I will change things.

"I've seen a change already under the caretaker Malky Mackay and there is quality here.

"Success is obviously about winning because that makes us happy but for me it's more than that. I aim to make everyone better here even by 1% and I want to see individuals and the team grow."

Rodgers' first chance comes on Saturday at home to fellow strugglers Doncaster.