West Bromwich Albion assistant head coach James Morrison has outlined his expectations for the team's first pre-season friendly, emphasising the importance of building fitness and implementing tactical ideas. The Baggies face non-league side AFC Fylde on Saturday as they begin their preparations for the upcoming Championship season.
Focus on Fitness and Fundamentals
Morrison, who returned to the club in a coaching capacity earlier this year, stressed that the primary objective for the friendly is to get minutes into players' legs. "The first game is all about building fitness and getting the lads up to speed," he said. "We've had a good block of training, but nothing replicates match action."
The coaching staff will rotate the squad to ensure everyone gets playing time, with a particular focus on integrating new signings and younger players. Morrison added: "It's a chance for us to see how the new boys fit in and for the youngsters to show what they can do."
Implementing Tactical Identity
Beyond fitness, Morrison highlighted the need to start instilling the team's playing style. "We want to see the principles we've been working on in training—pressing, passing patterns, and defensive shape," he explained. "It won't be perfect, but we need to see the foundations."
West Brom finished 9th in the Championship last season under Carlos Corberán, who remains head coach. The club has been active in the transfer market, bringing in several players to strengthen the squad. Morrison said the friendly will be a key test for the newcomers to adapt to the team's system.
Managing Squad Workload
With a long season ahead, Morrison emphasised the importance of careful workload management. "We'll be sensible with minutes, especially for players who have had a shorter break or are coming back from injury," he noted. The coaching staff will monitor player data closely to avoid overexertion.
Saturday's match at Mill Farm will be the first of several pre-season fixtures, with West Brom also scheduled to face Chesterfield, Bolton Wanderers, and Peterborough United. Morrison said the team aims to build momentum and sharpness through these games.
Opportunities for Young Players
The friendly also provides a platform for academy graduates to impress. Morrison, a former Scotland international who came through the youth ranks at Middlesbrough, said: "It's always special to see young lads get a chance. We want to give them the opportunity to show they can compete at this level."
Several U23 players are expected to feature in the matchday squad, with Morrison urging them to play without fear. "The message is simple: go out there, enjoy it, and show us what you can do. This is their chance to stake a claim."
Looking Ahead to the Season
Morrison acknowledged that pre-season results are not the priority, but he wants to see a competitive edge. "We want to win games, but the main thing is the performance and the physical output," he said. "We need to be ready for the first league game against QPR."
West Brom's Championship campaign kicks off on August 10 at home to Queens Park Rangers. Morrison is confident that the pre-season programme will have the squad prepared. "By the time the season starts, we want to be firing on all cylinders," he concluded.
