Next West Brom manager could be EFL boss who’s working wonders ahead of League One play-offs

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West Brom are still looking for a replacement for Tony Mowbray, and we can exclusively reveal that they have turned their attention to one of the most impressive managers in the EFL.

After a season that promised so much for West Brom, the Baggies had to settle for a ninth-placed finish, missing out on the minimum expectations of competing in the Championship play-offs.

That ‘unacceptable’ failure ultimately cost Tony Mowbray his job a couple of weeks ago, and West Brom have been searching for his successor ever since.

James Morrison is in charge for now, but is thought to be unlikely to continue in the role beyond the summer.

Now, EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal that a new name has emerged on the shortlist to become the next West Brom manager.

• READ MORE: West Brom chairman pens ‘incredible’ heartfelt message to fans, looks ahead to ‘next season’

Dave Challinor earns his place on West Brom shortlist

Discussing the situation with our Chief Football Correspondent Graeme Bailey, we understand that Stockport County manager Dave Challinor has impressed with the fine work he has done this season in League One and is now on West Brom’s radar.

Challinor has led Stockport to third place in League One and will now guide the club through the play-offs to try and reach the Championship.

Despite this, we are told Ryan Mason remains the top target for West Brom, but they are having to wait due to Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of the Europa League.

Meanwhile, Marti Cifuentes, who was placed on gardening leave by QPR, was considered by West Brom but they are no longer interesting in hiring the Spaniard.

• READ MORE: What James Morrison told West Brom players after Tony Mowbray exit in damning one-word assessment of season

Dave Challinor has done an incredible job at Stockport County

If Dave Challinor can secure promotion for Stockport County, it would be an unbelievable achievement, and one that would put the manager and the club in the same conversation alongside Wrexham for managing to do great things in the EFL.

It’s worth noting that Stockport County were still in the National League in 2021, but two league titles in the last three seasons, plus the success in League One this term, have put them on the brink of returning to the Championship for the first time since 2001.

Challinor’s managerial record is impressive, to say the least. In the last 14 years, he has never finished lower than a play-off spot with any of his teams, and he’s maintained that again this season.

He’s now approaching 200 matches in charge of Stockport, with the play-off semi-final against Leyton Orient his next task. Obviously, if he can get the club promoted, West Brom may have to look elsewhere, but either way, Challinor is certainly someone who should be managing in the second tier next season.