Credit: Hasan Karim/Imago

Carla Devine

Wed 28 May 2025 13:02, UK

West Brom are still searching for a new permanent manager after sacking Tony Mowbray towards the end of last season.

Shilen Patel has been eager to take his time over a new appointment at The Hawthorns, but with the summer transfer window upon us, a choice needs to be made.

Ryan Mason is someone who has been heavily linked with the hotseat in the Black Country and talks are said to have already been held over the possibility.

Mason an exciting hire for West Brom

After Carlos Corberan’s departure back in December, Patel turned to a former boss in Mowbray to take the side forward.

However, this was not a continuation and seemingly that translated on the pitch with the Baggies falling out of the play-off positions.

Therefore, the chief now needs to make the call that dictates the direction that Albion will be going in and Mason could be more similar to a Corberan.

While things certainly seem to be progressing, the appointment of the 33-year-old is not a done deal just yet.

However, Express & Star journalist Lewis Cox has been able to share some insight into the situation and what the current Spurs man could bring to the job.

Writing on X (28 May), he said: “It’s not a 100 per cent given Ryan Mason is the new West Brom head coach yet but, if he is, am told he’s a seriously fierce driven individual who will not stand for messing.

“No surprise given his step from playing to coaching so young. A very solid, organised tactician too, is what I hear.”

West Brom to turn to Mason

Patel has seemingly got some reservations about what is next for West Brom, given how long it has taken to get close to an appointment.

The Baggies want to be pushing for a play-off place next term, and therefore, getting the call right at this stage is essential.

Mason fits the bill of being a young and exciting manager, with the potential to play some nice football.

Furthermore, Cox’s report suggests that he is a serious manager who will be completely focused on success.

However, from a supporter’s perspective, you can understand why there may be some doubts given a lack of experience.

His only time of standing alone was as Spurs’ interim boss for two short spells and neither proved to be entirely successful.

That being said, taking a job on a permanent basis is a completely different kettle of fish and he would have the opportunity to shape the side.

It may be a risky choice, but there needs to be movement at The Hawthorns sooner, rather than later.