West Brom have appointed a 'serial winner' according to former defender Kyle Bartley, who insisted the ex-midfielder fully deserves the Albion job. Morrison's permanent appointment was confirmed on Thursday, following an unbeaten ten-game run that saw him take over as interim manager for the third time this season.
Morrison's Revival
Morrison has masterminded the Baggies' revival, and Bartley believes it was the right move from the club. Speaking on BBC WM's Football Phone-In, he said: 'I think so first and foremost massive congrats to Mozza, I've just spoke to him few hours ago. I am really happy for him because I think after the Oxford game the writing was on the wall a bit in terms of where the season was going for West Brom. Even the most loyal of Baggies fans thought the worst and it has just been a remarkable turnaround.'
Bartley added: 'He fully deserves it, everyone around him is really positive and looking forward to next season and two months ago no one would be saying that. I knew him as a player and as he retired and you move into a different role, he has a more serious approach. He has everything, he has been a captain, coach, manager and he has been around a long time. What James is, he is a winner. He is a serial winner and that is what he wants, he wants to succeed, to win, to progress the club.'
Impact of Matt Gill
Morrison's appointment was followed by the move to bring in Matt Gill as his number two. Gill, a former player, had spent a number of years working alongside former Southampton boss Russell Martin. Players have already referenced the impact Gill has made, and Bartley gave a bit more of an insight into what he has brought to Albion.
He added: 'I've spoke to Mozza and a lot of the lads and he is someone who is a coaches' coach, he loves being on the grass and going into the detail and tactical side. I think as a manager he is the perfect foil. Russell Martin took him to multiple clubs, and for Mozza he was the perfect appointment. You have that person on the pitch so Mozza can deal with managing the other side of things. Hopefully they can keep him and if they can't it is up to the West Brom board and Mozza to go and appoint someone.'
