This will have been far from an easy decision from the board, they will be fully aware of the risks. I wouldn't imagine Darren got a text saying "Go on then you can have a go", there would have been lengthy discussions about budgets, structure, style of play, transfers etc. and he has obviously convinced them that he can tick all the boxes. Add to that, they know him extremely well, so he won't be able to blag them like a smooth talking outsider could (Pardew)
Dean Smith has an ok CV, but nothing spectacular, despite many more years "experience". Big Dave is an unknown quantity in terms of managing, so yes that's an undoubted risk, but his pedigree is there. More than anything though, for me, he has a genuine passion for our club, he's not in it for the money, or a stepping stone to greatness. His one focus will, absolutely, be to do what's best for WBA and that is priceless.
I have recruited many people over the years and I would always prefer to promote from within. Identifying someone with ambition and the skillset you need, coupled with an in depth knowledge of your business, it's processes and people, rather than someone with an inflated CV who can blag an interview, is a no-brainer for me.
It's very rare you get the chance to do this in football and I, for one, am glad we have grabbed it with both hands. It's been a long time since I have felt any real affinity to a player or manager of our club but, Big Dave feels like a kindred spirit, like we are in it for the same reason and I love him for that.