Portsmouth administrator Trevor Birch has issued a hands-off warning to West Bromwich Albion over boss Michael Appleton. The 36-year-old has apparently emerged as a top contender for The Hawthorns job with Roy Hodgson set to leave to take up the England post.

"We want Michael here, absolutely. Hopefully, Michael is here for the long term," Birch told The Portsmouth News.

"I met with him and there was nothing mentioned about West Brom. As far as I'm concerned, Michael will be staying as Portsmouth manager.

"There has been no approach and we wouldn't welcome one. He is the future of the club. He's been blown away by the support and the last thing he wants is to go.

"If West Brom were to make a bid, it would be hellishly difficult because they are in the Premier League and he spent many years there. But bids are not welcome. Not at all."

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