Gerry Francis is being kept on at West Brom after the dismissal of Tony Pulis.

The Daily Mail says Albion have asked first-team coach Francis to stay on at the club despite being a close friend and ally of dismissed manager Tony Pulis.

Francis, 65, has worked with Pulis for nine years at Stoke, Crystal Palace and Albion, but the Baggies want him to fulfil his contract and assist interim manager Gary Megson at least until a permanent successor is appointed.

Francis, who commutes to the Midlands from his home in the south, has a good working relationship with Megson to help ease the transition.

Meanwhile, Albion are focusing on Alan Pardew as Pulis' successor.

The 56-year-old has been out of work since being sacked by Palace last December but has extensive top-flight pedigree with Newcastle and West Ham.

West Brom want a swift appointment and may even have a new manager in place for Saturday's game against Tottenham at Wembley.

At the least, the club would want their next boss watching from the stands.

Chairman John Williams is leading the search, with support from director of football administration Richard Garlick.