ALBION CLOSE IN ON A DEAL FOR PARDEW

ALAN PARDEW has emerged as the strong favourite to become the new manager of West Bromwich Albion. It is understood that Pardew, 56, has had two meetings with West Brom chief executive John Williams this week. And that suggests an announcement could be made after Gary Megson, interim manager following the dismissal of Tony Pulis on Monday, has led the team against Tottenham at Wembley today. Sam Allardyce, Slaven Bilic and Sheffield United’s Chris Wilder have also been considered. Pardew’s Premier League record and reputation for making a quick impact make him an attractive proposition. He was most successful at Newcastle, taking the club to fifth in 2011-12, and guided West Ham to ninth in 2005-06. He was sacked by Palace 11 months ago but is favoured by West Brom technical director Nick Hammond, who worked with him at Reading. Along with Williams and Hammond, chief executive Martin Goodman and Richard Garlick , director of football administration, complete the panel who will recommend an appointment to the owner, Chinese businessman Guochuan Lai. An appointment could be made on Monday.