Steve Clarke in line for Albion job

West Bromwich Albion look set to take a chance on Steve Clarke as their new boss.  The 48 year old has had a successful career, but as yet has never had the chance to fulfill the managerial role that he has openly desired.  But West Brom chairman Jeremy Peace is impressed with Clarke's vast coaching experience and is expected to name him as Baggies boss within 48 hours.

Clarke's successful career has seen him enjoy spells at Newcastle, West Ham and more recently working alongside Mourinho at Chelsea and Kenny Daglish at Liverpool.  Last season he enjoyed Carling Cup success alongside now departed Liverpool boss Daglish, and Clarke's own departure from Anfield was confirmed last night, leading to a further influx of gossip linking him with the vacant position at the Hawthorns.

West Bromwich Albion, who have been in the market for a new manager since Hodgson's depature at the end of last season, are believed to be out of the race for Birmingham manager Chris Hughton (who is likely to be named new Norwich City manager later this week), and negotiations with German coach Ralf Rangnick are believed to have broken down completely.  Jeremy Peace will be under increasing pressure to appoint a manager as preparations for next season; West Brom's third consecutive Premiership season, get under way soon

But the appointment of Steve Clark is unlikely to satisfy all of the Hawthorns fanbase, who will identify his lack of managerial experience as a potential pitfall.  Nonetheless Clarke is believed to be the only serious candidate in line for the job at present.