James Morrison is set to become the first interim manager to secure the West Brom job permanently since Darren Moore in 2018, following a remarkable ten-game unbeaten run that secured the club's Championship status.
Morrison's Impact
Morrison's third spell as caretaker manager, and his second this season, has been decisive. Since a defeat to Oxford United, Albion have not lost, clinching survival against Ipswich Town. A deal to appoint Morrison as the permanent successor to Eric Ramsay is nearing completion ahead of the final match of the season.
There is overwhelming support from fans for a player who made 341 appearances for the Baggies, predominantly in the Premier League. However, a minority express trepidation, citing the precedent set when Darren Moore was handed the reins in 2018.
The Darren Moore Precedent
In 2018, Darren Moore, famous for scoring the goal that secured promotion in 2002, took over as caretaker manager during a disastrous season. Despite being ten points adrift, he went unbeaten in April with three wins and two draws, almost keeping Albion up against the odds. Although they were relegated, Moore was given the permanent role.
Under Moore, Albion initially flourished, boasting the most potent frontline in the division thanks to Dwight Gayle and Jay Rodriguez. However, they faltered, slipped out of automatic promotion contention, and were sacked while sitting fourth. They eventually lost in the play-offs to rivals Aston Villa.
Different Context, Different Club
So, are fans right to have reservations? The answer is both yes and no. The path is similar, but the context and the club itself are different. In 2018, Albion had spent eight years in the top flight, and the pressure on Moore to deliver immediate promotion was immense. He failed, leading to his dismissal, partly due to the money spent and players brought in.
This time, things are distinct. Morrison has worked under more managers, with his first-team association stretching back to Sam Allardyce's era. Aside from a period away under Carlos Corberan, he has been observing and learning. The Albion he inherits cannot spend big but possesses Championship-ready quality. Expectations are far lower: the owners aim for play-offs, but a tenth-place finish would satisfy everyone.
Morrison has proven his capability and readiness. Giving him the job is unequivocally the right move.
