West Brom appoint Garlick to replace Ashworth

The 36-year-old is set to take over as sporting & technical director in the summer after the Baggies opted for an internal appointment to replace Ashworth.

Garlick, who has been legal director and secretary since 2010, was a trainee footballer as a teenager but his spent most of his career as a lawyer.

Chairman Jeremy Peace said: "As the sporting and technical director role is not yet firmly established in this country, the fact Dan's notice period runs until the summer has given us the opportunity to research a wide range of people with a variety of footballing skill sets.

"We have had Richard in mind since the start of the process and, after completing our research, he emerged as the strongest candidate.

"As with Dan when he was initially appointed five years ago, Richard already has an in-depth knowledge of the club, excellent relationships with the staff who will report to him and a clear understanding of how we operate.

"He will now work closely with Dan in a designate capacity with a view to taking on the role in a full capacity when Dan leaves to join the Football Association."

Ashworth will leave at the end of the season to become the FA's new head of elite development after four years as sporting and technical director.

The 41-year-old had previously worked at the Hawthorns as a youth coach and academy director after joining from Cambridge.

The Baggies were linked with a host of potential candidates, with Hamburg sporting director Lee Congerton believed to be among the front-runners before the German club blocked an approach.

Garlick was on Rotherham United's books between the ages of 14 and 18 before qualifying as a lawyer and specialising in sporting disputes with law firm Clarke Willmott, before joining Albion in May 2010.

His job has included dealing with players, their contracts and transfers.

Garlick said: "Dan will be a hard act to follow but the role has become solidly established at the club under his stewardship.

"I know what the job is all about as I've worked closely with Dan for the past two-and-a-half years.

"I'm sure Dan will be the first to admit that the success he has enjoyed would not have been possible without the support of the individuals within his departments.

"He has created an environment that has allowed each of his departments to flourish and this is something I aim to continue and, where possible, build upon.

"Steve Clarke has made an excellent start following his appointment as head coach and I aim to continue to provide a platform which enables him to succeed.