Darren Moore staying patient in search for West Brom assistant

The Baggies are due to report for pre-season training on Monday with Moore yet to appoint a No.2 to complete his coaching staff.

Moore, who is entering his first season in management, has long identified his ideal assistant and had ideally hoped to get things tied up more quickly. But he is now happy to wait a little longer to ensure he gets his man.

Moore has already promoted James Shan to first-team coach, while keeping Neil Cutler on as goalkeeping coach. Wayne Jacobs, Moore’s former Bradford team-mate, is also expected to continue in a part-time role.

What promises to be a busy summer at The Hawthorns will begin taking a clearer shape once the bulk of playing squad return next week.

Moore made his first big decision of his tenure on Wednesday when he opted to release long-serving trio Boaz Myhill, Claudio Yacob and Gareth McAuley.

Scottish giants Rangers, now managed by former England captain Steven Gerrard, are thought to be considering a move for McAuley, who has no desire to hang up his boots despite the prospect of turning 39 in December.

Myhill’s departure means the Baggies are now in the market for a goalkeeper to challenge long-time No.1 Ben Foster.

They are one of several clubs to have been linked with Red Star Belgrade shot-stopper Milan Borjan, though the Express & Star understands the Canada international is not on their shortlist.

Cutler, who will head up the search, has a reputation for working with young keepers and it is thought the club may target a player who can both provide Foster with an immediate challenge and have room to develop.

Last season’s third-choice keeper, Alex Palmer, is also highly thought of by the Baggies coaching staff and will be given a chance to stake his claim during pre-season.