West Bromwich Albion: James Morrison Welcomes Goalkeeper Dilemma West Bromwich Albion interim manager James Morrison has expressed satisfaction with the competitive selection dilemma facing the team ahead of their Good Friday match against Wrexham. The decision to choose between goalkeeper Max O’Leary and Josh Griffiths for the starting role has been described as a positive challenge, with Morrison emphasizing the importance of maintaining intensity and competition within the squad. O’Leary, who limped off during West Brom’s 3-0 victory over Hull City on 14 March, is set to return to full fitness. His absence was addressed by Griffiths, who came on as a substitute and played the full 90 minutes in a subsequent 2-0 win against Bristol City on 21 March. Griffiths also kept a clean sheet in that match, a performance that has bolstered his case for the starting role. Morrison confirmed that he has already made his decision on the starting goalkeeper, stating that both players are “important” and that the competition between them is beneficial for the team’s dynamics. “I’ve made my decision on who starts,” Morrison told BBC Radio WM. “It’s good for them to compete. They are both important. Josh came in and was ready. Max did well leading up to the games he missed. It’s a good [headache] to have.” The manager also highlighted the return of other key players to training, including defender Chris Mepham and attacking midfielder Tammer Bany. Mepham’s return has been welcomed as a significant boost, while Bany’s inclusion has added depth to the squad. Morrison noted that having multiple players back in training is a “big plus” for the group, reinforcing the team’s positive momentum. Morrison emphasized his philosophy of ensuring players are “fighting for the spot” and maintaining pressure on those who start.#james_morrison #west_bromwich_albion #max_oleary #josh_griffiths #chris_mepham
West Bromwich Albion manager James Morrison has urged his relegation-threatened squad to adopt a mindset of confidence, insisting they must believe they can win every game remaining in the Championship season. The former Albion midfielder, who took temporary charge of the club on 24 February, emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive approach after securing their first point under his management in a 1-1 draw against Sheffield United. The result lifted West Brom out of the relegation zone as they prepare to host in-form Southampton in a crucial match. Morrison, who has been given the permanent role until the end of the season, praised the team's response to his initial challenges, calling the draw a "positive result" that sets the tone for the rest of the campaign. "We’ve got to back it up," he said, highlighting the need for strong home performances to keep the team in contention. Morrison’s tenure has not been without setbacks. His first game in charge ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Oxford United, a loss he described as "unacceptable." He also criticized his players’ mental resilience after that match, noting their "mentally fragile" state. However, he claimed the team has since regrouped, with improved training sessions and a renewed focus on matchday preparation. "It’s not about the training, it’s about what we do on a matchday," he said, stressing the importance of capitalizing on opportunities. The upcoming clash against Southampton presents a significant test. The Saints are on a 10-game unbeaten run across all competitions and have already secured a play-off spot, sitting four points above West Brom. Morrison acknowledged Southampton’s confidence but challenged his players to believe they can overcome any opponent.#west_bromwich_albion #james_morrison #sheffield_united #southampton #the_hawthorns
