Shilen Patel instantly reacts as Tony Mowbray appointment announced at West Brom
Shilen Patel has welcomed Tony Mowbray back to West Brom after being confirmed as Carlos Corberan’s successor on Friday.
The Baggies confirmed [17 January] the 61-year-old’s return to The Hawthorns after weeks of speculation over his appointment, with the news now being announced on social media.
Chris Brunt has been leading from the dugout since Corberan’s departure, overseeing the last five matches in all competitions, with some supporters suggesting he should be kept on by Albion.
Reacting to the news via X [17 January], Patel wrote: “Welcome back, Tony!” with blue and white hearts.
Tony Mowbray announced at West Brom
With Mowbray’s return to The Hawthorns finally confirmed, the Baggies can get straight down to business and stop fretting about who could step into the role on a permanent basis.
Of course, Corberan has left massive shoes for anyone to fill, taking Albion to great heights under tremendous financial strain and the pressure of a takeover from Patel himself.
But with the love of the supporters behind him, Mowbray will feel now is the right time to return after getting the all-clear from his bowel cancer diagnosis.
It is understood that the 61-year-old will be in the stands when the Baggies face Stoke City on Saturday 18 January, which is bound to be an emotional day for everyone at The Hawthorns.
There is unlikely to be a dry eye in the house when Stoke visit at the weekend, and if Brunt can sign off from his temporary role in style, it will be a brilliant day for all involved.
Some have already raised concerns about the appointment of Mowbray, but with Rene Hake and Raphael Wicky, he is certainly one of the next-best options currently available to Albion.
There is a tremendous amount of work to do if this team is to claim promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs this season, with the Baggies currently one point outside of the top-six spots.
In other West Brom news, the Baggies are in a bid to sign Isaac Price, a player who is set to jet into the UK on Monday.
For more West Brom news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.