West Brom boss James Morrison's 'guarantee' pledge for new season

Pre-season work will click through the gears over the next seven days as the Baggies tackle Sheffield Wednesday behind closed doors on Saturday before a training camp in Portugal and Algarve clash against Bromley.

Morrison, appointed on a permanent basis after delivering Championship safety in the spring, has vowed his squad will carry the principles required to give a chance at success.

“There's pressure here to perform at this club,” Morrison said.

"It can be demanding at times and it can be very rewarding if you show the effort, fight and togetherness the fanbase wants to see from the players on the pitch. I understand that.

"I understand that fully but I believe in myself and the staff here. I believe in the players.

"It's almost like a clean slate, really. I can't guarantee success but I can guarantee all the principles we've put in to take us forward and continue all the good work we've done.”

A 10-match unbeaten run in March and April sealed safety despite a controversial late two-point deduction, and much of Morrison’s squad remains similar as things stand, with four new recruits featuring one youngster signed for the club’s under-21s and one back-up goalkeeper.

Morrison’s connection with the club, built over two decades at The Hawthorns with a milestone 20-year anniversary next year, also helped bring the club together during the dark days after Ryan Mason and Eric Ramsay tenures.

Results led the way, however, as Albion thrived under the former Scotland international.

"That's the unique part of my role,” he added. “I know this club like the back of my hand so I'm going to use that to my advantage.

"I know what I like. I know what I like to watch in football. So we'll see that type hopefully.”