Darren Moore not getting distracted by West Brom relegation permutations

Albion’s caretaker boss has defied relegation three times with remarkable away victories at Manchester United and Newcastle either side of a late fightback at home to Liverpool.

Moore was a Baggies player during the 2004/05 season when Bryan Robson pulled off the original Great Escape to keep Albion up.

This time it’s even more unlikely, because Albion need eight results to go their way in the last fortnight of the season.

But Moore won’t be thinking about what is happening anywhere other than The Hawthorns this weekend.

“Whatever happens outside, we can’t stop that or determine what goes on,” he said. “All we’re doing is looking after West Bromwich Albion and showing our commitment to the football club.

“We can’t determine whatever goes on outside, we just focus on our own.”

After turning around the club’s fortunes, Moore has emerged as a contender for the permanent role, and has received the backing of senior players like Ben Foster.

“People will say that because I hold the position of caretaker manager but let’s just get through these six games,” he said.

“The club’s asked me to take six games, next is the fifth. When we come to the end, the board will determine what’s happening there. All I’m doing is focusing on the games.

“At this moment in time I’ve not given it (the job) any thought. I’ve been a coach, I really enjoying my coaching, working with them on the front line every day.

“I’m passionate to improve people and develop people and that’s exactly what I’ve done.

“I know the question will be asked because of the position I’ve been put in by the club but honestly it really is the next game. I can’t stress it enough. I’ve just done it one game at a time.”

But the caretaker boss, who went to Wembley on Monday to watch Saturday’s opponents Tottenham beat Watford 2-0, did admit he was enjoying his spell in charge.

“Yeah I’ve enjoyed it, it’s been hard work but you just keep going,” he said. “I’ve got a wonderful commitment to this club, as a previous player here and now as a staff member here.

“Everybody’s got to do their part and that’s exactly what I’m doing.”