Chris Brunt responds to permanent West Brom manager question after first win as interim boss
Chris Brunt was asked if he’d like to take on the West Bromwich Albion manager’s job permanently after the Baggies’ 3-1 win over Preston North End.
The interim head coach has ruled himself out of the running to become the new West Brom manager following Carlos Corberan’s exit on Christmas Eve.
Brunt, working in tandem with coach and first-team statistical analyst Damia Abella, led Albion to a comfortable 3-1 victory over Preston on New Year’s Day. The Hawthorns was treated to a sensational first half as the Baggies were 3-0 up and out of sight by the interval, courtesy of a Josh Maja brace and a maiden goal for Callum Styles.
Although inexperienced in coaching, Brunt has impressed in a testing situation in the Albion dugout. The 40-year-old is regularly the loans manager with responsibilities in recruitment and developing young players but he’s stepped up in a time of need.
Corberan leaving in the middle of the busy festive period was always going to be challenging - and that was evident in the 2-1 defeat at Derby County on Boxing Day - but Brunt has helped West Brom bounce back. A spirited 1-1 draw at title challengers Sheffield United and now the 3-1 win over Preston have followed, soaring Albion up to fifth in the Championship.
With no clear favourites emerging in the West Brom manager hunt and positivity high following Wednesday’s win, Brunt has inevitably been tipped by some to take on the job permanently. With 421 appearances as a player, Brunt is without doubt a club legend but he’s not quite ready for such a big step up in the coaching world.
The first to admit just that, Brunt has completely shut down the idea of becoming Albion’s new boss. “No I wouldn’t have thought so, I’m way too inexperienced for that,” he said when asked if he’d fancy his chances.
“It’s been nice to come here today as I played so many games here as a player, I had a lot of good times. It’s nice to be on the touchline but I don’t think it’s time for me to do anything like that.”
As it stands, Brunt expects to remain in charge of West Brom for Saturday’s trip to Swansea City in the Championship. He said he’s prepared to keep going “until he’s told otherwise” with the Baggies still searching for the right candidate to replace Corberan.