West Brom unveil Alan Irvine as new head coach

Alan Irvine says he hopes with his and the fans passion West Bromwich Albion can get success.

He was speaking to the media at his first press conference since being appointed as head coach at the Hawthorns at the weekend.

Irvine also said he 'understands' he may not have been the number one choice by the fans.

He takes over from Pepe Mel.

New West Bromwich Albion boss, Alan Irvine, has confirmed the club have 'an interest' in signing the former Manchester City and England defender, Joleon Lescott.

Our reporter, Callum Watkinson, has been at Irvine's first press conference as the Albion head coach.

Fans have been reacting angrily to the news that Alan Irvine has been appointed the new head coach of West Bromwich Albion.

The 55 year old former Preston and Sheffield Wednesday manager will join the Baggies after he leaves his current role as Everton's academy manager.

But many supporters were hoping to secure former Spurs boss Tim Sherwood.

West Brom have announced former Preston and Sheffield Wednesday manager Alan Irvine as their new head coach on a 12-month rolling contract.

The Scot will succeed Pepe Mel, who left the club by mutual consent the day after the Barclays Premier League season finished last month, once he "signs off" from his current role as Everton's academy manager.

Rob Kelly, who worked under Irvine at Preston and Wednesday, has also been appointed joint assistant head coach, alongside Keith Downing.

Albion technical director Terry Burton told the club's official website: "I'm delighted we have been able to secure the services of Alan and Rob."