No West Bromwich Albion approach to Millwall – reports Baggies want to speak to Gary Rowett about boss vacancy

Millwall have not received an approach for Gary Rowett – with reports claiming that West Bromwich Albion want to speak to the Lions boss about their vacancy.

The 48-year-old’s odds to become the Baggies next manager have majorly shortened over the course of the day.

Rowett is the second longest-serving boss in the Championship and is due to mark three years in charge on October 21.

Former Birmingham Mail reporter Chris Lepkowski claimed earlier today that Rowett, who has managed the Blues, Stoke City and Derby County in England’s second tier, was “very interested” in the West Brom position.

“I’m reliably informed [Rowett] is very interested in the job,” Lepkowski told The Liquidator podcast. “I’m not a betting man. I’m not saying that Rowett would definitely get the job. But he might be one to watch in all of this because I’m fairly sure that he will be a strong candidate.”

West Brom sacked Steve Bruce on Monday.

“Backroom staff Steve Agnew, Stephen Clemence and Alex Bruce have also left The Hawthorns,” said the club in a statement. “The club would like to place on record its thanks to Steve Bruce and his coaching staff for their efforts since arriving in February.

“U21s coach Richard Beale will oversee first-team affairs on an interim basis, assisted by James Morrison and Gary Walsh.

“The process of recruiting a new manager is now under way and an appointment will be confirmed in due course.”

Rowett is the 12th longest-serving boss in England’s top four divisions. He has overseen 151 matches as Lions manager with a record of 58 wins, 46 draws and 47 losses.

Millwall still had a shot of reaching the play-offs going into the final day of last season. But a defeat at already-promoted Bournemouth proved academic with other results also not going in their favour, giving them a finish of ninth.