West Brom season plans stepping up as player return date confirmed

Albion’s players will return for pre-season training on June 25 with preparations for the new Championship campaign starting to ramp up.

The return date, just under two weeks from now, coincides with the release of the EFL fixture list with James Morrison heading into his first season as head coach.

Morrison, who oversaw an impressive escape from relegation last season, after being appointed on an interim basis in February, is eager to push on and challenge higher up the table.

Though it has been a quiet summer to this point, the official opening of the transfer window on Monday could spark movement with the Baggies aiming to make some early moves in the market.

Morrison has remained in close contact with Ian Pearce, the club’s director of football operations, and technical director Dominic Price since the end of the campaign.

The upcoming window will be the first since the 2024 takeover by Bilkul not to be dictated by the need to drastically reduce losses inherited from the previous ownership.

While the Baggies must remain mindful of profit and sustainability regulations, they do have more financial wriggle room and are not in a position where they must sell before buying.

Goalkeeper Max O’Leary is the only player so far to have agreed a new deal, while talks are ongoing with forward Karlan Grant. The Baggies are still waiting to learn whether striker Josh Maja will accept the terms offered.

Morrison also hopes to finalise his coaching staff for the new season. Matt Gill impressed after being drafted in as assistant on a short-term contract and Albion would like to keep him on.

Further pre-season fixtures are due to be announced. Albion have so far confirmed a behind-closed-doors meeting with Sheffield Wednesday at St George’s Park on July 11, while they will travel to Peterborough on August 1.