Survival specialist ‘agrees’ to take over as West Brom near Bilic decision

Alan Pardew (right): Rates Sam Allardyce highly

Alan Pardew (right): Rates Sam Allardyce highly

Sam Allardyce has agreed to replace Slaven Bilic as West Brom manager, according to reports.

Bilic is facing the sack at West Brom after a difficult start to their first season back in the Premier League. That’s despite them claiming a draw against Manchester City on Tuesday.

The Croatian is out of contract at the end of the season, and so far has given little away about his future. Now, it appears he could be saying goodbye sooner than expected.

With West Brom 19th in the table having won just once this season, the club hierarchy are concerned they could drop straight back into the Championship.

They know the upcoming January transfer window could be crucial, so want to ensure they have the right man in place to lead them through it. That spells bad news for Bilic.

According to Football Insider, Bilic has already been sacked by the Baggies. An official announcement should arrive later.

 

The report also adds that Allardyce, out of work since 2018, is in line to replace him.

Allardyce’s last job was at Everton. Before that, he had a proven track record of helping clubs such as Crystal Palace and Sunderland stay up.

Therefore, West Brom believe he is the ideal candidate to salvage their season. And after being approached by the club, Allardyce has agreed to a short-term deal.

The 66-year-old will be backed in the transfer market and could sign a contract until the end of the season. Any chances of a longer-term deal would likely depend on whether he can lead them to survival.

Bilic ‘calm’ about job

Bilic.West_.Brom_.TEAMtalk

Just last night, Bilic admitted he was not worried about speculation that he could be sacked.

After the City draw, he said: “I’m very calm. I’m doing my job. I’m not bothered about that.

“We showed tonight – I can’t be more proud of what my team showed for West Brom. The other things are out of my control and I’m not bothered.”

However, it appears his time in the hotseat is coming to an end.