Baggies set to bag Robson today

Bryan Robson will begin his reign as West Brom boss against familiar opposition if, as is expected, he is brought in as Gary Megson’s successor.

The Baggies are tipped to confirm Robson’s appointment today, giving the former England captain the opportunity to face previous employers Middlesbrough in his first game in charge on Sunday.

Robson began his playing career at The Hawthorns before joining Manchester United and going on to win 90 international caps.

As a manager, he twice took Middlesbrough into the Premiership during his seven years on Teesside.

A short stint with Bradford last season did little to enhance his reputation but he looks set to be a popular choice with the Albion faithful.

Meanwhile Glenn Hoddle’s agent claims the former England coach never considered himself as a serious contender for the West Brom job.

Dennis Roach insisted Hoddle ruled himself out of the running to succeed Megson after preliminary talks with Albion chairman Jeremy Peace.

Roach’s statement comes after the Baggies announced at the weekend they had ruled Hoddle out of the running.

But Hoddle’s agent has revealed his client’s interest in taking over at The Hawthorns never got past the stage of initial talks.

Gary Megson was relieved of his duties as manager at West Brom after he announced he would leave the club at the end of the current season when his contract was due to expire.