Megson blocked from seeking new job

GARY MEGSON has revealed his frustration at not being allowed to look for a new job after being put on “gardening leave” by West Brom, who are still his employers.

Megson says his lawyers are negotiating with the club regarding his departure and that the Hawthorns outfit are still paying his wages.

The former Stoke and Stockport boss was relieved of his duties yesterday after writing a letter to the board of directors announcing his decision not to extend his contract beyond its expiry next summer.

And he revealed a phone call from chairman Jeremy Peace informed him he would be placed on gardening leave, as his letter was taken as one of resignation.

Megson said: “I wrote a memo to the chairman and the rest of the board just stating that at the end of my contract, June 30 next year, I wouldn’t be staying after that.

“I’m surprised but disappointed more than anything else, I wanted to stay at West Brom and see my contract through. But it’s not my decision.

“I’m on gardening leave, I can’t look for work. I’ve got to let the lawyers sort out what needs to be sorted and I want to get back to work as soon as possible,” he said.

“I’m not available for any job. The chairman phoned me at 5.30 yesterday and informed me I am on gardening leave. I’m still getting paid by the club. I want to manage another club and to be a success as I’ve done with West Brom,” he added

Speculation has already started to mount over Megson’s replacement at the Hawthorns with Gerard Houllier, Bobby Robson, Micky Adams, John Gregory and Bryan Robson among those finding their names linked with the post.

Despite reports, no approach has been made to former England and Newcastle chief Robson as yet.

“At this moment in time, there is no comment to make. As far as I am concerned, this is nothing more than conjecture,” said the 71-year-old.

But another former Albion player, Bryan Robson, was less subtle about his interest.

The former Middlesbrough boss said: “I shall be applying. I’ve heard that rumour about me and Sir Bobby but I can assure you I have not spoken to him.

“But it is definitely a job I would be interested in,” he told the Wolverhampton Express and Star.