Burley in running for Charlton post

Charlton Athletic yesterday cleared the way for the appointment of their new manager with the exits of the long-serving assistant Keith Peacock and first-team coach Mervyn Day.

Both had one year left on their contracts and have left by "mutual consent" following the decision by the manager, Alan Curbishley, to step down after 15 years in charge. Peacock, who will take a break from football, and Day met Richard Murray, the plc chairman, yesterday. The club stated later that it was best "to bring in a new management team".

Charlton have set a deadline of today for applications to succeed Curbishley after deciding to advertise the post. However, it is felt that despite a number of strong contenders their main targets will have to be approached. The club's board are discussing whether or not to appoint a young, up-and-coming manager such as Luton Town's Mike Newell or Phil Parkinson, of Colchester United, or to aim for a more established figure.

Southampton's George Burley is prominent in their deliberations despite his public statement last week that he is happy to remain at St Mary's. Hull City's Peter Taylor also features.

Peter Varney, the Charlton chief executive, said that no short-list had yet been drawn up. "On Wednesday, we will see where we are moving to," he said.

"Thursday was Phil Parkinson day, on Friday Martin Allen was 9-4 favourite and then it is Peter Taylor - all of the speculation is ridiculous rubbish. Peter has not applied for the position - but we will sit down and discuss both those who have applied and those who have not."

* The West Bromwich Albion manager, Bryan Robson, will lead the club in the Championship next season. The chairman, Jeremy Peace, announced last night that Robson would keep his job. Peace said: "We believe in stability here."