West Bromwich Albion: Raphael Wicky out of contention for head coach job
Steve Hermon, BBC Radio WM
On Saturday morning it was understood that while the t’s were not crossed and the lowercase j’s were not dotted, negotiations were at an advanced stage with Raphael Wicky expected to be appointed as the new Albion manager. It’s time for this weekend’s Championship game at home to Stoke City.
This is a huge blow for the Lantern Bags as the Swiss has been their preferred candidate after interviews with the shortlist.
The sticking point appears to be his behind-the-scenes staff. Wicky wanted to take two guys with him and I know the Baggies hierarchy are fully supportive of that, but the issue of the two moving to the UK caused negotiations to break down.
Andrew Nestor led the head coaching search, and it was always suggested speed was never a priority. However, nearly three weeks after Carlos Corberan’s departure, it may now be necessary.
Interim managers Chris Brunt, Damia Abela and Boas Myhir have overseen five games so far, apart from last weekend’s FA Cup defeat at Bournemouth. Behaving well in this situation.
Will this unexpected news reopen the door for former United assistant Rene Hake – who has never been interviewed before – or will Brunt and his colleagues be tipped to return to the dugout again? The call remains to be seen. Time at Hawthorn.
