Roberto Di Matteo to be named West Brom boss

Jun 30 2009 by Chris Lepkowski

They lost to Scunthorpe on penalties in the play-off semi-finals, but the team had been praised throughout the campaign for the quality of their football.

Di Matteo has an academic background, having built on a business studies degree gained in his native Switzerland by taking an MBA course at London's European School of Economics.

Although he is relatively inexperienced as a manager, Di Matteo, an Italian international of 39 caps, has been working his way through his coaching badges after his playing career was ended when he was just 31.

Preston has issued a statement confirming that Irvine will be remaining as their manager, although Albion claim that it was their decision to hand the job to Di Matteo, as opposed to Irvine rejecting them.

"Over the weekend I was approached by West Bromwich Albion," said PNE chairman Derek Shaw.

"Sometimes it is very difficult to give a running commentary to our supporters via the media. I had to discuss things on Monday morning with our lawyers.

"Alan was given permission to speak to West Brom while he was away on holiday, but he has chosen to remain as Preston's manager.

"I know Alan and his representative did have some talks, but I believe Alan did not meet them face to face and he has chosen to remain at Preston which we are extremely pleased about. This was confirmed to me late on Monday night when Alan returned from his family holiday."