Soccer:West Brom will waste little time in seeking a replacement for England-bound head coach Roy Hodgson with Birmingham boss and former Republic of Ireland international Chris Hughton believed to be high on their list of targets.
Albion anticipate Hodgson will accept the chance to become the successor to Fabio Capello with talks planned with the Football Association.
Hughton came close to replacing Roberto Di Matteo at The Hawthorns 15 months ago after being sacked by Newcastle and was interviewed for the post before Hodgson was chosen. But he has further enhanced his reputation since taking charge of Birmingham last summer.
Despite losing most of last season's relegated squad, and financial restraints, Hughton has guided Blues into the npower Championship play-offs.
City also acquitted themselves well in the Europa League and held Chelsea to a replay in the FA Cup before bowing out in the fifth round.
Compensation would be an issue and Birmingham will be keen to hold on to Hughton after Alex McLeish quit last summer to join Aston Villa.
It is believed the Baggies are also considering former coach Michael Appleton - now manager at Portsmouth - and Bristol City boss and former Albion midfielder Derek McInnes.
Alan Curbishley, who rejected the chance to take the Wolves job in February, former Birmingham boss Steve Bruce, Cardiff's Malky Mackay and Charlton's Chris Powell are also potential candidates.
PA
