West Bromwich Albion have opened talks to make Jody Morris their new manager, according to reports in the last 48 hours.

The Lowdown: Morris profiled

The Championship side have been on the lookout to find Steve Bruce’s successor following his departure earlier in the month, with a shortlist of candidates being compiled to take over at the Hawthorns.

The 43-year-old was previously Frank Lampard’s assistant at both Derby County and Chelsea, but has been out of work ever since leaving Stamford Bridge last year.

His only job as the number one came with Chelsea's U18 side.

The Latest: West Brom enter Morris negotiations

According to Football Insider, West Brom are ‘in talks’ with Morris regarding the managerial vacancy, and he’s believed to be one of those ‘in the frame’ to take the job.

The former midfielder has admitted that he is looking for a return to the dugout, but would have to be ‘100% convinced’ by the presented opportunity.

The Baggies are ‘hoping’ to make an official appointment before this weekend’s game against Millwall.

The Verdict: Risk worth taking

Morris hasn’t held a senior managerial position before so this would be a huge risk for the hierarchy, but it could well be one worth taking given his record at academy level.

The Hammersmith-born coach won an outstanding 53 of his 65 matches in charge of Chelsea’s U18s (82%), averaging 2.55 points per game (Transfermarkt).

Morris also led his side to four trophies, taking home the English FA Youth Cup and English Youth League winner titles both twice, so will know what it takes to be successful in the Midlands.