Curbishley is early favourite
Albion today began the search for Bryan Robson's replacement with the bookies immediately installing Alan Curbishley as favourite to take up the post.
The former Charlton manager is one of the most prized managerial assets in the country and is thought to be ready to listen to offers of work after leaving The Valley at the end of last season.
But the list of initial runners and riders underlines the lack of options available to chairman Jeremy Peace as he looks for a man to revive the Baggies' Championship promotion bid.
Robson's assistant Nigel Pearson was second favourite with Bet365 at 8-1. Pearson has taken charge of first team affairs and was on the shortlist of candidates for the Ipswich post during the summer.
But he was very much part of a managerial package with Robson and that close alliance may count against him as the board considers the next appointment.
Luton's Mike Newell is rated at 10-1, while former Villa bosses David O'Leary and John Gregory are 12-1 along with Northern Ireland boss Lawrie Sanchez.
Former Wolves manager Glenn Hoddle, who was among Albion's top targets following the departure of Gary Megson two years ago, and John Ward are both 14-1 while ex-Rangers boss Alex McLeish is 16-1.
The news of Robson's departure came on the back of reports that Peace was lining up Gretna coach Mick Wadsworth to join the club as technical director.
Peace was known to be interested in speaking to Wadsworth, whose last job in England was as assistant manager at Shrewsbury.
Wadsworth has also had spells in charge of Carlisle, Scarborough, Colchester, Oldham and Huddersfield.
By Andy Toft
See also: Robson leaves West Brom, Fan reaction to Robbo's exit, Send us your views, "No surprise" - Andy Toft on Robbo
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