Why James Morrison has all the tools to succeed as West Brom head coach

James Morrison has been backed to have everything in his armoury to succeed as Albion’s permanent head coach.

The Scot was rewarded for his stunning efforts to guide the Baggies to Championship safety with a two-year contract at the helm.

His significant experience at the club, both playing and as a coach, has been given as a reason why the 40-year-old taking on his first permanent job can flourish.

Albion official supporters’ club chairman John Homer, supporter of six decades and involved with the club via Foundation dementia groups and stadium tours, is certain Morrison has what it takes.

“James was appointed as caretaker, which I thought was a wonderful appointment,” Homer told the Express & Star.

“I know some fans were thinking he and others were part of the malaise and the demise.

“My argument was there's no way with their affiliation to the club, both Boaz (Myhill, goalkeeper coach) and James, that they would be happy with the situation that was unfolding.

“Whether or not Mr (Eric) Ramsay was prepared to take on board whatever advice they were trying to give him is a different matter entirely.

“But if you look at Mozza’s toolbox - he's dealt with promotion and relegation in the Championship and the Premier League.

“At some point in time, he's played with some of the best players the Albion have ever had. He's played on the international stage with Scotland. He knows about man management.

“He knows the football club inside out, the culture of it and the fans. If you look at his apprenticeship and the managers and the coaches that he's served - Roy Hodgson, (Roberto) Di Matteo, Tony Mowbray, Steve Clarke, Tony Pulis.

“There’s a mix of styles there and I’m sure as a football man you pick the best of them.”

Homer added credit to the board in reacting to fix the situation after the January appointment of Eric Ramsay had failed.

“You look at it opposed to Mr Ramsay’s toolbox, which was with youth players and in the MLS where there is no relegation or pressure,” the fan group chair added.

“For the board of directors - nobody goes out to make a bad choice, they make it with intent and in good faith.

“But I think a good thing was whoever made the decision was prepared to accept it wasn’t working and couldn’t continue and turned to a loyal servant in James.”