West Bromwich Albion have begun the search for a new manager after parting company with Tony Pulis.

The Baggies’ Chinese owners sanctioned chairman John Williams to pull the plug on Pulis’s tenure – after just short of three-years in charge.

The decision was made after the weekend’s 4-0 home defeat to Chelsea which leaves them just a point above the drop-zone.

Chairman John Williams added: “These decisions are never taken lightly but always in the interests of the club.

“We are in a results business and over the back end of last season and this season to date, ours have been very disappointing.”

It is understood Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill plus two former West Brom players – Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes and ex-Leicester man Craig Shakespeare – are under consideration.

I am also told that the Chinese owners want Williams to see which ‘big names’ could be attracted the Hawthorns – which may mean looking at foreign targets.

Bookmakers make O’Neill the favourite, along with McInnes – whilst Sam Allardyce is also rated amongst the favourites.

BetVictor’s Head of ante post Football Michael Triffitt explained: “Tony Pulis has paid for a poor run of form at West Brom with his job and has left the Baggies.

“Former Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill is 3/1 favourite in our opening show.”