Hammers set for quick decision on manager
The decision looks set to be made ahead of the end of season review where such matters are generally resolved.
David Moyes remains in the frame but the club has a shortlist of names and want to make the decision fast as the whole recruitment scenario the club wants to put in place relies upon it.
They need to ensure they go through the correct consultative process with the manager before appointing a recruitment head and ensuring the two men are on the same page.
The club – knowing that the transfer window will be shortened this season – need to identify player targets under the men in charge and move quickly.
They can make no player approaches until the window opens and hope to have the two men in place to start work on negotiations the minute it does.