West Bromwich Albion have added Swansea City boss Russell Martin to their shortlist for the vacant managerial role at the Hawthorns, according to The Athletic (via Football League World).

The Lowdown: Martin’s career

Upon his retirement as a player at MK Dons in November 2019, the 36-year-old took on the job as the club’s new manager. The Scotsman took charge of 80 games there, during which time the side averaged 1.38 points per match in League One.

Having been promoted the season prior under manager Paul Tisdale, Martin led the Dons to an 18^th place finish in their first season back in the English third division.

The following season, his side climbed up to 13^th in the League One table, earning the manager a move to Swansea in August 2021.

Currently, after 13 games played, the Swans sit 6^th in the Championship table.

The Latest: West Brom interest

According to The Athletic (via Football League World), West Brom have identified Martin as a potential candidate to replace Steve Bruce at the Hawthorns.

Since chief executive Ron Gourlay decided to terminate Bruce’s contract, the club have been hard at work looking for the perfect successor.

Heading the list is Martin, alongside former Huddersfield Town boss Carlos Corberan.

Martin, who opts for a 3-4-2-1 system, remains under contract until 2024, so the Baggies will first have to seek permission from Swansea to open talks.

It also remains to be seen just how much the South-Wales side will seek in compensation if discussions with their manager reach an advanced stage.

The Verdict: Great appointment?

Whilst the Albion sit in the relegation zone, currently 22^nd in the Championship table, Swansea are sixth in the league, having gained 21 points from their opening 13 games.

Categorically the bigger team, the Baggies job will appeal to those looking to get the Midlands club back on track - fighting for a place in the Premier League.

Having been hailed as a ‘future Premier League manager’ by former professional player Jamie Mackie, it is clear Martin has the quality needed to succeed in the second tier, so the step up to the Hawthorns could come at the perfect time.

Whilst at MK Dons, only Manchester City and Barcelona had a higher possession percentage in Europe, illustrating the 36-year-old’s progressive style of play. Therefore, his appointment will depend on a drastic change being made by the board, as they are renowned for their defensive managerial preferences.