West Brom latest news: Fresh claim emerges on Hawthorns favourite replacing Ismael

West Bromwich Albion may look to seal Slaven Bilic's return on a short-term basis if Valerien Ismael is sacked, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Baggies went into the campaign looking to bounce back into the Premier League at the first attempt, but a wretched run of form has seen them drop eight points adrift of the Championship's automatic promotion places.

Chief executive Xu Ke revealed he had dreams of Ismael remaining at the helm for the next four years following his appointment last summer, but it seems the Frenchman's days at the Hawthorns may already be numbered.

The Baggies' automatic promotion hopes have suffered a major setback thanks to a run of just one win in their last seven Championship outings.

West Brom's poor run of form continued with a 2-0 defeat to Millwall at the weekend and it has been reported that there is now a 'toxic atmosphere' within the fanbase.

Meanwhile, Ismael has fallen out with Sam Johnstone after refusing to reinstate the England goalkeeper to his starting line-up having served a suspension.

Robert Snodgrass has also left the Baggies by mutual consent after rumours emerged of a bust-up with Ismael.

West Brom fans have shown their disapproval of Ismael being in the hot seat by recently chanting the name of former boss Bilic.

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Jones has refused to rule out the possibility of Bilic sealing a return to West Brom as Ismael's successor if a change is made in the dugout.

The journalist believes the Croatian could be seen as the perfect short-term option as Albion continue their promotion push.

When asked whether Bilic could head back to the Hawthorns, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "Maybe. It depends which way