West Bromwich Albion are reportedly preparing a move for Millwall manager Alex Neil should they decide to part ways with current boss Ryan Mason.
Pressure Mounts on Ryan Mason
The Baggies secured a 2-1 home victory against Oxford United this past weekend, but the win did little to alleviate the pressure on their young manager. After falling behind early in the second half, West Brom equalised through an own goal from Greg Leigh before striker Aune Heggebo scored the winner.
Despite the three points, Ryan Mason's side sit 14th in the Championship table after their first 14 fixtures. They are currently four points adrift of the play-off positions, a situation the club's hierarchy finds concerning.
The team faces a challenging return to action after the international break with an away trip to league leaders Coventry City.
Alex Neil Emerges as Top Target
According to journalist Alan Nixon, West Brom are 'ready' to make a move for Millwall's highly-regarded boss, Alex Neil, if results fail to improve under Mason. The 44-year-old Scotsman has impressed during his tenure at The Den, transforming Millwall into genuine promotion contenders since taking over in December last year.
Neil's work has not gone unnoticed elsewhere, with Football Insider reporting that Middlesbrough are also admirers of the manager. Under his guidance, Millwall are positioned in 6th place, firmly inside the play-off spots alongside clubs like Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City.
The Airdrie-born manager boasts extensive Football League experience, having previously guided Norwich City to promotion to the Premier League in 2015. His CV also includes spells at Preston North End, Sunderland, and Stoke City before his successful move to Millwall.
What's Next for The Baggies?
West Brom appointed Ryan Mason in the summer as the replacement for Tony Mowbray. The 34-year-old, who signed a three-year contract running until 2028, left his backroom role at Tottenham Hotspur to take on his first managerial position in the Football League.
However, his team has struggled with consistency this season, leading the club to consider Alex Neil as a more experienced and steady alternative. Millwall, meanwhile, will be desperate to hold onto their manager, particularly to a direct Championship rival.
Neil's commitment to Millwall was reinforced when he signed a new contract earlier this year. At the time, he expressed his delight, stating: "I'm delighted and incredibly proud to sign this new contract. Since my first day, the commitment and togetherness I've seen from everyone at the club - players, staff, and fans - has been really special."
He added: "I've said it many times - this club is special. It's only when you truly experience the work going on behind the scenes, speak with the fans, and work alongside the players and staff day in and day out, that you realise just how unique it really is."
The international break now gives West Brom's decision-makers crucial time to evaluate Mason's position as pressure continues to build at The Hawthorns.
