Roy Hodgson looks set to become the next England manager after the FA made an official approach to speak to Albion’s head coach.
Albion have granted Hodgson the opportunity to discuss the position as England boss after the experienced coach expressed an interest in the position.
Chairman Jeremy Peace said Hodgson has done a “fantastic job” at The Hawthorns and he “understands why he wants to speak with the FA”.
Hodgson, who took over in February 2011, has guided Albion to third successive season in the Barclays Premier League after taking the club from relegation favourites to the best side in the Midlands during his time with the Baggies.
The club are currently in negotiations with Roy over a new contract – and remain keen to extend his stay. However, after the excellent work completed by Hodgson during his reign, Jeremy Peace said the club would not stand in the former Liverpool and Fulham manager’s way.
"Roy is a proud Englishman and we can understand why he wants to speak to The FA about this highly-prestigious managerial position,” said Peace.
"However, we have emphasised to Roy how much we would like him to remain as our Head Coach and continue his major contribution to our project at The Hawthorns as we look to establish ourselves as a Barclays Premier League club.
"Everyone here has an excellent working relationship with him and he is immensely popular with our supporters."
In an official statement, David Bernstein, FA Chairman, said he was grateful Albion had allowed the organisation permission to speak with Hodgson – their only candidate.
“Roy is the only manager we have approached and we remain on course to make an appointment within the timescale we set-out soon after Fabio Capello's departure,” he said.
"Further conversations will now take place with Roy and my Club England colleagues before any further announcements can be made."
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