Baggies contenders
Skysports.com looks at the possible contenders to replace Roy Hodgson at the Hawthorns next season.
Last Updated: 01/05/12 4:42pm
Roy Hodgson has been named the new England manager, leaving a vacancy at Premier League club West Brom.
Here, Skysports.com looks at the possible contenders to replace Hodgson at the Hawthorns next season.
CHRIS HUGHTON
Hughton came close to replacing Roberto Di Matteo at West Brom when he was sacked by Newcastle 15 months ago. The 53-year-old, who is currently in charge of Birmingham, was interviewed for the post before Hodgson was offered the job. Hughton is now believed to be one of the favourites for the role after steering Birmingham to the Championship play-offs despite losing most of last season's relegated squad.ROBERTO MARTINEZ
Wigan manager Martinez looks on course to stave off relegation for the second season in succession for the north west club after a late surge in form, which could make him an attractive option for West Brom. However, Latics owner Dave Whelan, who is a staunch supporter of the Spaniard, has publicly given him his backing on several occasions and wants to keep Martinez at the club despite his ever-increasing reputation.
MICHAEL APPLETON
Portsmouth manager Appleton is no stranger to the Hawthorns having worked alongside Di Matteo and Hodgson at the West Midlands club. The 36-year-old was expected to take over from Hodgson before he moved to Fratton Park last November and could be tempted back to the Black Country as Pompey, who are currently in administration, have been relegated to League One and will be facing pressure to trim their wage bill in the summer.
STEVE BRUCE
Bruce is currently available following his sacking from Sunderland last November after a string of poor results. The 51-year-old had been linked with the role of Wolves manager following the departure of Mick McCarthy and could be tempted by the position at West Brom now Wolves have been relegated to the Championship.
MALKY MACKAY
Cardiff boss Mackay has guided the Welsh club into the Championship play-offs in his first season in charge but could be an outside bet to move to the Hawthorns if the Bluebirds do not secure promotion to the Premier League. Mackay has also led Cardiff to their first ever Carling Cup final in a successful season, however, he signed a contract extension to keep him at the club until 2016 which could put him out of the running.
SAM ALLARDYCE
Like Mackay, West Ham manager Allardyce has led his side to the Championship play-offs after his first season in charge. If the Hammers fail to secure top-flight football next season, Allardyce could also be interested in making the switch to the Hawthorns.
MICK McCARTHY
Former Wolves manager McCarthy is available after he was sacked from West Brom's rivals in February following a string of poor league results. McCarthy spent five and a half years at Molineux before his dismissal, and this in itself might rule him out of replacing Hodgson at the Hawthorns due to popular pressure from Baggies fans and he would be a leftfield appointment.