West Bromwich Albion's interim manager, James Morrison, has expressed his disappointment following the dismissal of Ryan Mason, as he prepares his team for a crucial FA Cup third-round tie against Swansea City this Sunday.
Morrison's Sympathy for Sacked Mason
The 39-year-old Morrison, a former Baggies player now in his second temporary stint in charge, admitted the entire coaching staff felt some responsibility for the club's disappointing first half of the season. West Brom have won just nine of their 27 Championship matches and are closer to the relegation zone than the promotion places after a tenth consecutive away defeat at Leicester City.
"Obviously my emotions are for Ryan - we had a connection and worked together for a period of time and I thought he was a top man and top coach so, on that front, I'm disappointed," Morrison told BBC Radio WM. He acknowledged football is a results business but stated his commitment to representing the club as best he can while in charge.
FA Cup Provides Welcome Distraction
Morrison's immediate task is to guide West Brom past Swansea and into the FA Cup fourth round, while also trying to avoid equalling an unwanted club record. Another loss on Sunday would mean an 11th straight away defeat, matching a joint-record last set in the 1926-27 season.
The interim boss confirmed he will carry on in the role until told otherwise, amid ongoing speculation linking former Manchester United coach Eric Ramsay with the permanent position. This fixture is a quick reunion for the two sides, with Swansea having beaten West Brom 1-0 at the Swansea.com Stadium on New Year's Day, a result that contributed to Mason's exit.
How to Watch the FA Cup Tie
For fans wanting to follow the action, the all-Championship FA Cup clash kicks off at 2.30pm on Sunday, 11 January. The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sport 6, with coverage beginning approximately five minutes before kick-off.
Subscribers can also stream the game live on devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets via the discovery+ app. West Brom will be hoping for a better outcome than their last visit to Wales, with the club having won just one of their last 11 away games against Swansea in all competitions.
