McInnes the popular choice to fill West Brom hotseat

Published on Wednesday 24 June 2009 23:12

ST JOHNSTONE manager Derek McInnes has received ringing endorsements from West Brom players past and present for the vacant post at the Hawthorns.

Support for former Baggies captain McInnes to be installed as a successor to Tony Mowbray has gathered strength after he topped a local poll among the club's fans.

And now McInnes' former West Brom team-mate Neil Clement, who is the only player remaining from the Saints manager's time at the club, has recommended him for the post.

He said: "He had lots of respect as captain. One of my mates at St Johnstone, Jody Morris, has told me what a great job he is doing up there.

"No-one at West Brom has a bad word to say about him. He is very highly thought of.

"He is a class guy and always gives 100 per cent in everything he does.

"I think he would do a tremendous job and I think someone as forward thinking as him could only take the club forwards.

"I would like to see him here. I have always got on well with him. He is a great ambassador for the club and he would be an inspired appointment."

Former Albion midfielder Andy Johnson has also backed McInnes for the role.

Johnson, who played alongside McInnes, said: "I think it is only right that Derek is a fans' favourite for the job.

"He brought a lot of good times to the club as a captain. I think we finished in our highest position for 20-odd years and the fans don't forget that.

"Perhaps they think if Derek came back then the good times will come back as well.

"He has done a great job at St Johnstone in his first managerial role.

"He was always a very good professional.

"I would like to see him given the job, and he has done so well early on in his managerial career."