[2][1] After joining Hartford Athletic on 13 January 2021, he won his first match in charge 3–2 against New York Red Bulls II on 30 April 2021.

On 6 June 2021 in his fourth match he broke the club record for the biggest ever win in their history when he beat New York Red Bulls II 7–0 at home who had seven MLS contracted players from the first team in the lineup.

[4] On 25 July 2022, Watling was appointed First Team Development coach at Championship side Queens Park Rangers.

[5] After topping the championship with QPR, Watling followed Michael Beale who was head hunted to Glasgow Rangers as first-team coach.

[7] Watling had an instant impact providing the clubs first win of the season in his first game in charge against Hartlepool United.