West Brom wisely look past Tim Sherwood to secure Tony Pulis

Pragmatism has finally arrived in the West Midlands after decades of lush, Ron Atkinson-inspired football

The Premier League's number one expert in securing mid-table finishes for perennial relegation fodder is off the ranks and heading to The Hawthorns. The Telegraph has claimed an early exclusive with its report on WBA securing the managerial services of Tony Pulis. The former Stoke City boss, who saved Crystal Palace from almost certain relegation last season, is set to be confirmed as the Baggies' new man in charge after reaching an agreement with the club this morning. The club, we are told, also considered ex Spurs chief Tim Sherwood but, with the club lying in a precarious 17th spot, opted for sense over gillets. Pulis is expected to sign a two-and-a-half-year contract and will have a say - although not 100% - in the club's transfer policy. Pulis departed Palace ahead of the new season after a dispute over the Londoners' transfer policy. West Brom, with 'deep regret' of course, sacked Alan Irvine on Monday night after a run of seven defeats in nine games.