Former West Brom and Wolves striker Jason Roberts slams treatment of BAME bosses

The Midlands club named Gianfranco Zola as manager last week only hours after sacking Gary Rowett, but failed to interview a BAME contender for the role despite agreeing to a voluntary English Football League (EFL) code to do so in June.

Blues were one of 10 EFL clubs to commit to interviewing at least one BAME candidate for every senior first-team role but they now follow Wolves in failing to apply the code, with their Championship rivals doing so when Walter Zenga replaced Kenny Jackett in July.

Wolves cited 'exceptional circumstances' following the short time between the Fosun takeover and Zenga's appointment, which the EFL was satisfied with. Roberts said: "It's hugely frustrating but that's the issue with having a voluntary code. There is no obligation.

"You have to commend the EFL for trying to do something, but the devil is in the detail and these clubs are not following through with it.

"This isn't about Zola per se – it's about the bigger picture. The EFL has to show it's serious about making this work because the situation isn't getting better.

"It's shameful, really. We're good enough to play but we're not represented off the pitch. In years to come we'll say 'how did we put up with it for so long?'"

There are currently only three BAME managers in the top four divisions.

Meanwhile, Gary Rowett says he is ready for an immediate return to management and has not ruled out dropping below the second tier following his surprise sacking by Blues.

"I'm not desperate," said the 42-year-old. "If something comes along that is really attractive then fantastic, I would start tomorrow. I feel ready to go.

"At the same time, I'm not in a massive rush. It's nice to step back and just review a little bit.

"I want to manage at the highest level, anybody does. But at the same time, I've been in League Two with Burton Albion and I absolutely loved every minute of that, so I certainly wouldn't limit myself."