West Brom sporting director Dan Ashworth admits the club were 'surprised' to land Roy Hodgson as Roberto Di Matteo's successor.
The new head coach penned an 18-month deal at The Hawthorns last week to succeed Roberto Di Matteo following the Italian's sacking after a poor run of results.
Hodgson himself was shown the door by Liverpool last month following a six-month stint at the helm after failing to bring the success he enjoyed with Fulham to Anfield.
His spell on Merseyside followed an impressive period at Craven Cottage, where he guided the Cottagers to the Europa League final last season.
Albion technical and sporting director Ashworth admits he did not expect the 63-year-old, whose first game in charge will be Sunday's Black Country derby against Wolves, to fill the Baggies post.
Ashworth said in the Daily Mirror: "I was surprised to get Roy.
"When I did meet him I was there three-and-a-half hours and I talked to him about our club DNA and how the club is set up.
"He's been touted as a potential England manager and has fabulous experience in Europe and with European players.
"That all helps. It is a massive coup for us."
