Baggies fans go for Moore

WEST BROM caretaker boss Darren Moore has emerged as a serious contender for the job.

It is understood the choice for Chinese owner Guochuan Lai is between the 44-year-old Moore and another experienced candidate and the decision will be made next week.

The turnaround in form under Moore, above, meant the Baggies were relegated only on Wednesday after Southampton’s win at Swansea after looking doomed since March.

West Brom were set to make official approaches for Brentford’s Dean Smith and Leicester No 2 Michael Appleton.

But players and fans have rallied around Moore, who said: “I’ll speak to the board. Whether that’s as a contender, we’ll see.

C PALACE WBA

Things need to be sorted for the new season.”

West Brom face Palace today with Eagles manager Roy Hodgson saying the club will have to spend big if they are to avoid another relegation fight.

That includes a bid for midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who is on loan.

Hodgson said: “It would take a very big investment to replace Ruben. We will just have to accept it if he goes back – it all depends on Chelsea.

“I will be speaking to our American owners about having money to spend. I’ve heard some encouraging noises but nothing has been put in front of me.”