Roy Hodgson opens talks over new contract with West Bromwich Albion

Roy Hodgson has opened formal talks with Albion over a new contract at The Hawthorns.

Hodgson's representatives have held their first official discussions over an extended deal – the clearest indication yet that the 64-year-old intends to stay with the Baggies.

The talks were held with Albion sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth, who hopes to keep the man who looks set to steer the club to an unprecedented third straight Premier League season.

Hodgson has held a series of informal conversations with Ashworth over his future plans during the course of the season.

But the involvement of his advisors in more detailed negotiations suggest the veteran coach has decided he wants to continue his career at The Hawthorns.

Hodgson has been linked with the vacant England job and it remains unlikely he will put pen to paper on an Albion contract until he receives a clear message he is out of the running to succeed Fabio Capello.

But, with Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp still the favourite to land the role and Hodgson stepping up talks with the Baggies, Ashworth is confident of keeping the club's most successful Premier League boss.

Hodgson, who has retained a diplomatic stance on his contract talks when addressing the media, is preparing his side for tomorrow's Hawthorns game with Blackburn.

And the ex-Rovers boss will face his former club without winger Jerome Thomas, who has been ruled out by a knee problem, and reserve goalkeeper Marton Fulop, who is troubled by an ear infection.

Hodgson said: "Jerome's got a bad knee that kept him out for of the last game and it will probably keep him out tomorrow, I don't know how much longer than that.

"I would be disappointed if it goes on beyond the QPR game, because it's a knee problem he's suffered with on and off during the season.

"Marton's ear infection is very unpleasant for him and he is undergoing tests for find out what actually it is that is causing this temporary deafness in his right ear."

Captain Chris Brunt should be available to play despite a recurrence of tonsillitis.

Meanwhile, Hodgson has confirmed Albion's interest in Glasgow Rangers forward Steven Naismith, who is expected to leave the troubled Old Firm club for as little as £1.5m.