Mowbray may head for West Brom

Hibernian have given West Brom permission to talk to Tony Mowbray about the vacant position at the Coca-Cola Championship club at the manager’s request.

The Edinburgh club reluctantly agreed to Mowbray’s request and last night agreed a compensation deal with the Baggies, leaving the path clear for the former Ipswich coach to return south.

In a statement released on the club’s official website hibernianfc.co.uk, Hibs chairman Rod Petrie said: “Yesterday was a long day of discussions with both West Bromwich Albion and with our manager Tony Mowbray.

“The club did not disguise its hope that Tony would remain in post to continue the good work at Easter Road.

“However, there were two significant events during the day. First, Tony expressed his clear desire to have the opportunity to speak to West Bromwich Albion. This was then the catalyst for agreeing a compensation package.

“Secondly, Jeremy Peace of West Bromwich Albion reflected his enthusiasm to secure Tony’s services by making a much more substantial offer of compensation.”