West Brom in no rush on new boss but transfer point made amid youthful preference hint

It is unlikely a new boss will check in at The Hawthorns before the end of the Championship season, which is only 10 days and two more fixtures away.

Albion decision-makers had a shortlist drafted for any potential movement on Mowbray's position but will address the lay of the land when it comes to would-be targets or those out of work, or potentially soon to be out of work, which has moved on since the search after Carlos Corberan in December and January.

It is believed the club will look to a youthful head coach as they target a fresh start with a hunger to succeed for the new campaign.

Albion had looked to appoint former Young Boys boss Raphael Wicky prior to Mowbray's arrival, but that deal broke down amid issues over his backroom staff. Albion are unlikely to reignite their interest in the Swiss coach.

The timing of Mowbray's dismissal helps the club use the next couple of weeks to address the shortlist and take into account potential manager changes in the weeks ahead as seasons finish around Europe. 

Rivals Norwich yesterday axed boss Johannes Hoff Thorup and are one of several Championship clubs looking to make a fresh start during the off-season.

Mowbray, 61, was brought back to The Hawthorns 16 years after he ended his first spell in January with an aim for his attacking-brand to fire the club into the play-offs.

But results unravelled in recent weeks and a run of five defeats in six had the Baggies slumped in 10th and owner Shilen Patel delivered the news in person on Monday evening after Mowbray's press duties were complete.

While the club will not be rushed into an appointment, they will not be afraid to make the call if their ideal target becomes available and negotiations can accelerate.

There is also an acknowledgement things do not want to be left too far into the close season, as an appointment will help the process of recruiting players in what is a significant summer ahead for the club.

Transfer recruitment will continue without a head coach, led by sporting director Andrew Nestor and his team, as well as director of football operations Ian Pearce.

But the presence of a new head coach sooner rather than later is likely to influence the decisions of would-be transfer targets.

Former midfielder James Morrison, who was moved from an academy coaching role to Mowbray's first-team coach in January, is in charge as caretaker for the final two games against Cardiff and Luton. He is assisted by Damia Abella and Boaz Myhill.