West Bromwich Albion's Michael Appleton tipped to become Portsmouth boss

West Bromwich Albion's assistant manager Michael Appleton has become the frontrunner to take the reins at Portsmouth, according to Sky Sports News.

The Championship side have been linked with a number of prospective managers since the departure of Steve Cotterill to Nottingham Forest last month.

Reports emerged that up to fifty applications were sent in to Fratton Park, with Steve Coppell believed to be in talks with the former Premier League side.

Despite the speculation, Roy Hodgson's right-hand man is thought to be leading the line for the role.

The 35-year-old, who used to play for Manchester United, became a coach for the Baggies first team in 2009.