Manager: James Morrison
Previous season: 21st
Notable arrivals: Barney Stewart (Falkirk), Jimmy-Jay Morgan (Chelsea, loan), Conor Townsend (Ipswich), Matt Ingram (Oxford United), Felix Horn Myhre (SK Brann), Rabby Nzingoula (Strasbourg)
Notable departures: Jed Wallace (Bristol City), Karlan Grant (Charlton), Josh Maja (Le Havre), Daryl Dike (Orlando City), Josh Griffiths (Stoke).
What should supporters expect? The hope is for significant progress after a deeply disappointing campaign. Albion came dangerously close to dropping into League One before James Morrison transformed their fortunes with an unbeaten sequence spanning 10 matches. Now appointed permanently, he will be expected to target the expanded play-off places. Whether that goal is realistic remains uncertain, but a top-half finish would represent encouraging development for a young squad still finding its identity.
Main strengths? Morrison’s impressive turnaround was founded on a disciplined and dependable defence. He introduced a traditional 4-4-2 system and allowed the players to operate in familiar roles. Albion recorded seven clean sheets across their final nine fixtures while also reaching the opposition box more frequently through adventurous full-backs. The approach combined structure with attacking purpose, and the club will hope to maintain that same level of organisation and intensity.
Areas of concern? Although Morrison’s arrival led to more attempts on goal, converting opportunities remained a major issue throughout the season. Only four sides registered fewer goals than the Baggies, with Oxford and Sheffield Wednesday among those teams before suffering relegation. Aune Heggebo scored nine league goals during his first campaign in England and will aim to increase that total, but the Norwegian striker cannot carry the attacking burden alone. More players must contribute regularly in front of goal.
Potential game-changer? Jimmy-Jay Morgan has impressed with five pre-season goals, although it would be unfair to place too much responsibility on a young forward with no previous experience at this level. Felix Horn Myhre is also new to English football, but the 27-year-old midfielder brings valuable experience from European competition and should be better prepared to cope with expectations. Regarded as Brann’s most influential player by observers in Norway, he could become a central figure for Albion if he settles quickly.
Jobi’s forecast: 17th
What do you feel about this post?
Like
Love
Happy
Haha
Sad
