West Bromwich Albion could be ready to replace Steve Bruce with someone who seems very keen on getting the job…
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According to Chris Lepkowski, speaking on The Liquidator podcast, Millwall boss Gary Rowett is “very interested” in taking the Hawthorns hot seat.
A report in The Mirror on Monday noted his inclusion in a shortlist made up by the hierarchy at the club.
Lepkowski had the following to say: “You’ve got somebody like Gary Rowett, who I’m reliably informed is very interested in the job. By the quirks of football, we happen to be playing Millwall very soon.
“I’m not a betting man – I’m not saying that Rowett would definitely get the job – but he might be one to watch in all of this because I’m fairly sure that he will be a strong candidate.”
He could be worse than Bruce
There might be an outstanding reason why the Chinese ownership of the Midlands club could swoop for the Lions boss, as Rowett has a track record of working on a modest budget with his current club.
It might therefore come across as a slightly unambitious appointment, should they decide to go for the 48-year-old over some of the other more progressive names being touted, such as Russell Martin.
The Championship stalwart has certainly gained his experience, having also managed Birmingham City, Derby County and Stoke City in the league.
Although he had varied success, journalist Steve Nicholson had the following to say on his Rams side: “Derby's style of play under Rowett has come in for criticism from some fans, who feel the approach is too negative.”
Whilst he may grind out better results, as with his Derby side that finished 6th in his debut season, it might birth further frustration from fans at the Hawthorns who will be wanting something a bit more exciting after Bruce’s dismal regime.
Whilst he might offer some stability and a run of good results, presenting him to a fanbase that has seen their side score just 17 in their 13 league games, after Millwall themselves have scored two less, would be like pressing the self-destruct button.
The fans might not react well to this one, and should it go wrong, it could actually turn out worse than the Bruce appointment with relegation on the line.