Simon Cox sure West Brom board will land the best man

West Bromwich Albion striker Simon Cox admits he has never heard of potential Baggies boss Ralf Rangnick – but is backing the Hawthorns board to pick the right man.

Officials from Albion were continuing discussions today over Roy Hodgson's replacement with club sources insisting key club personnel leaving for holidays will not delay the recruitment process.

And Cox, who is away with the Ireland squad preparing for Euro 2012, admitted he was in the dark when he heard about the link with Rangnick.

But he is backing the Hawthorns hierarchy to make the right appointment 16 months after they lured Hodgson to the club.

"I've never heard of him, being perfectly honest," said Cox. "But whoever the board of directors decide is the right man, I'm sure we will give him a warm welcome if he is the man to take the hotseat."

And Cox admitted he will be keen to discuss his own role in the side with the new head coach.

"First of all we have to appoint one and then, whoever that may be, I will pick up the phone and see what his plans are, not just for me but for the whole of West Brom," he said.

Albion are believed to be edging closer to an appointment with Rangnick thought to be the favourite but other contenders, including Birmingham boss Chris Hughton, are still being considered.