Steve Clarke To Be Announced In 48 Hours?

The press have gone a little bonkers today and most are steadfast that Steve Clarke will be announced as our new manager sometime in the next 48 hours.

The E&S posit that our board were slightly disappointed by Ralf Rangnick’s decision to entertain the Belgium job (which was given to Marc Wilmots yesterday apparently) after holding so many positive interviews with the 53 year old.

His agent maintains he was offered the job, and some outlet’s are stating that he turned us down, but the Albion have maintained all along that they didn’t offer him the job.

His agent, somebody who clearly likes the sound of his own voice told Spox.

‘After careful consideration, Ralf has decided to decline the offer presented to him by West Bromwich Albion.’

I find it interesting that was said after Albion denied he had been offered the role, after the press highlighted Clarke as the new favourite and after the Belgium job was no longer available.

Make your own minds up!

I’m sure everybody knows Steve Clarke, former right back as a player for Chelsea, went on to be Mourinho’s right hand man during his spell at the London club and most recently worked alongside Kenny Dalglish at Liverpool before being sacked only a matter of days ago.

He might not have been the expected appointment – if the rumours are true – but he certainly has a good grounding and knowledge of the game, and again whilst not being a big name or a wow or spectacular appointment, I actually think he will do a very solid job with us and build on what Roy created if he ends up with the role.

Some may disagree, but he could be a perfect replacement and push us on further.

Knowing Clarke’s pedigree, I’m far more excited about his appointment than I would’ve been had it been Rangnick to be honest.

The next two days will tell, won’t they. But already having seen some reaction from fans, we have to remember Clarke will not be manager in it’s truest sense because of our setup, he’ll be head coach.

After 14 years in the role alongside names like Bobby Robson, Kenny Dalglish and Jose Mourinho, he is more than qualified for that role.

I do conceed I’d feel a bit differently it was ‘manager’ in it’s truest meaning due to his lack of experience in the additional roles that would bring.

Vital West Brom on:

Vital West Brom on: