Last Updated: Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:27
Preston boss Alan Irvine has revealed his relationship with chairman Derek Shaw was a deciding factor in spurning West Brom's advances.
Following Tony Mowbray's decision to move to SPL giants Celtic, Irvine emerged as the leading contender for the Baggies hotseat.
However, Irvine, who guided the Lillywhites to the play-off semi-finals last season, opted to stay at Deepdale where he has been in charge since 2007 and praised Shaw for his support during his tenure.
"I think the relationship between a chairman and a manager is a key relationship and we have a very good relationship," Irvine Preton's official website.
"I understand the way the club has to be run and I respect the way the club has to be run and I knew that right from the start.
"I think Derek understands the way that I work and tries to help in every way that he possibly can. That relationship is one which is very good and one that has to be good."