Former West Bromwich Albion striker Shane Long has added his voice to the growing calls for James Morrison to be appointed as the club's permanent manager. Morrison, a club legend, has taken charge of the team since the sacking of Eric Ramsay and has guided them to a nine-game unbeaten run, securing Championship survival with two games to spare, though relegation is still dependent on a PSR hearing.
Morrison's impact
Since taking over, Morrison has steadied the ship after a turbulent season that saw Ryan Mason sacked in January and Ramsay last just nine games. Albion's owners now face their fourth permanent managerial search since taking over, but many believe Morrison has earned the right to stay.
Shane Long's support
Long, who played alongside Morrison during West Brom's Premier League years, told Midnite: "James Morrison deserves to keep the job full-time now they've avoided relegation. West Brom is a weird one because you look at their players, they've got a good team, good individual players, and it's just about a manager coming in and gelling them as a team, and I think he's done that."
He added: "When you're in a relegation battle, you're always looking down, thinking I hope they don't catch us, rather than looking up and thinking of going for the play-offs. It's just a switching mentality. If Mozza can get the job full-time, get a full preseason with the players, bring in one or two that he wants as well, and there's a lot of quality there already for him to really turn it on next season."
What next for Albion?
The club's hierarchy will make a decision this summer, with Morrison's unbeaten run and the backing of fans and former players strengthening his case. A full preseason could allow him to build on the momentum and push for a playoff spot next term.
