Dalglish - Clarke a top coach

Steve Clarke: Worked with Kenny Dalglish at Liverpool but is now heading out on his own

Kenny Dalglish believes his former Liverpool assistant Steve Clarke would be a perfect fit for West Brom, as they close on his appointment as their new boss.

The Baggies are expected to make an announcement regarding their vacant managerial post on Friday.

They have been in the market for a successor to Roy Hodgson, who is now in charge of the England national side, since the end of the 2011/12 Premier League season.

Numerous candidates have been linked with the post, including German tactician Ralf Rangnick.

It is, however, Clarke that has leapt to the front of the queue.

Respect

He spent last season aiding Dalglish at Anfield, but left his assistant manager's role in the wake of the Scot's sacking.

It is understood that West Brom are now set to hand him his first taste of life in a top coaching job, and Dalglish believes the Baggies have made the right choice.

"Steve Clarke was a fantastic assistant boss to me at Liverpool," he told the Daily Record of a man who has also held coaching positions at Newcastle, Chelsea and West Ham.

"The players all respected him and enjoyed their training with him.

"I hear he's about to get the manager's job at West Brom and I'm happy for him.

Stability

"It would be a great move for him and for the club.

"It would be the perfect place for him to start out as boss because of the stability of the club.

"In some ways, the job there is a head coaching position and it would allow him to continue with something he does brilliantly.

"At the same time, he could ease himself gently into the role of managing a football club.

"I'm glad he's getting fixed up. He would be an asset to any club."