I won’t be soft touch

DARREN MOORE says that anyone testing his nice-guy image could be in for a shock.

New West Brom manager Moore will not be afraid to get nasty if that is what is required.

“I’m as competitive as the next person. If I need to speak to someone, whether that’s in a scolding way or friendly, I will do it in the best interests of the individual concerned,” said Moore.

“I want to do well. As a player I wanted to win and I’m no different as a head coach. Ask people who I played alongside or against.”

The 44-year-old accepted the job instantly and cannot wait to get started in the Championship next season.

Moore is one of only three black managers in the top four divisions and he said: “I am a role model, yes, but I’ll probably leave it out there for others to look at.

“By me sitting here in the position and the role I’ve got, it’s an inspiration to all young British coaches right across the board.

“And hopefully, my role inspires them right the way from grass roots football through to the professional game. If it also does that for individuals then I’m extremely proud.”

He is desperate to put the Baggies back on track after relegation from the Premier League and he said: “We just drifted as a football club and probably took our eye off the ball.

“The Championship is an extremely tough division. There are another 23 clubs with the same hopes. It’s gruelling, very tough and relentless.”