All change at West Brom

West Bromwich Albion FC of the FA Premiership have continued their boardroom shake-up with the announcement of a new chief executive and managing director.

O'Leary appointed
Businessman and lifelong fan Mike O'Leary was named as the Midlands club's new chief executive yesterday, while Brendon Batson MBE, who played for West Brom between 1978 and 1984, becomes managing director and will work closely with manager Gary Megson.

'Long admired Gary Megson'
For the past 18 years, the 49-year-old Batson has worked at the Professional Footballers Association - the players' union - where he is currently deputy chief executive. "I have long admired Gary Megson and look forward to working with one of the brightest young managers in the [FA] Premiership," Batson said in a statement issued by the club.

Boardroom upheavals
The club, who won promotion from the first division to the FA Premiership last season, said they were still in talks with former captain John Wile to terminate his position as chief executive and main board director. Last week West Brom's acting chairman Clive Stapleton quit under pressure from other board members and was replaced by Jeremy Peace. Former chairman Paul Thompson stepped down last month after he fell out with Megson.

Possible transfers?
A statement from the club added that: "We are working with Gary Megson on a number of potential transfer targets and, in addition, are currently in advanced discussions with Gary regarding his new improved contract."

Wallwork arrives
And one of those transfer targets came to fruition today with the purchase of Ronnie Wallwork on a Bosman free transfer from Manchester United FC. The 24-year-old is West Brom's first signing since they won promotion in May, and joins the club on a three-year contract after making just nine starts for United in his six years at the club, as well as spending time with Carlisle United FC, Stockport County FC and R. Antwerp FC on loan.