The dismissal came less than 24 hours after the Croatian had led the promoted side to a creditable draw at Manchester City.

Having taken the reins at the Hawthorns last summer, the former West Ham boss ended his first season at the Baggies helm with automatic promotion as Championship runners-up.

But West Brom have found life tough back in the top flight and are one from bottom of the table on just seven points following Tuesday's 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium.

Reports emerged after the match that the Croatian was set to be sacked and the West Midlands club called time on his 18-month stay on Wednesday lunchtime.

In a statement, West Brom said: "West Bromwich Albion have today parted company with Head Coach Slaven Bilic.

"Assistant coaches, Dean Racunica and Danilo Butorovic, and first team coach Julian Dicks have also left the club with immediate effect.

"Albion would like to thank Slaven and his coaching staff for their efforts in achieving promotion last season and wishes them all well in the future."

Sam Allardyce, who has been out of work since leaving Everton in 2018, has swiftly emerged as the main contender to replace Bilic.

The former England boss is reportedly set to sign an 18-month deal at the Hawthorns.

Australian Associated Press