Baggies and Mel part company by mutual consent

West Brom have parted company with manager Pepe Mel by mutual consent, with former Cardiff boss Malkay Mackay installed as the early favourite to replace him at 3/1, with Chris Hughton 11/2 and Tim Sherwood rounding off the top three at 7/1.

Mel was appointed by the club in January and recorded three wins, six draws and eight defeats in 17 matches. Only Nobby Stiles has endured a worse record as permanent Baggies boss. Mel’s predecessor, Steve Clarke had a 32.65 percent ratio.

Sporting & Technical Director Richard Garlick said: “We would like to thank Pepe for his efforts over the past four months in helping to keep the club in the Premier League, and wish him well for the future.

“Both Pepe and the club set out with the best intentions of making the appointment work. However, having reflected on events both on and off the field during our talks today, it became apparent that it was in the best interests of both parties for there to be an amicable parting.

“We are grateful for the manner in which the existing coaching staff and players have rallied behind Pepe to get the club over the line in what has proved an extremely competitive division.”

First team coach Keith Downing took charge as caretaker in January after Clarke was dismissed, and was quick to remark that he didn’t want the role on a permanent basis. As a result he is 25/1.

The West Midlands outfit have struggled for consistency since the Spaniard took over, finishing just three points outside the relegation zone. Having also lost their last three matches, it turned out to be the home win against West Ham, and the away victory at Carrow Road against Norwich in April that proved vital to keeping them in the Premier League.