James Morrison Confident as West Brom Host High-Flying Millwall
West Bromwich Albion head coach James Morrison is brimming with confidence as his team prepares to welcome Millwall to The Hawthorns on Friday evening. The Baggies have showcased impressive form in recent home fixtures against in-form opposition, and Morrison believes his side can rise to the occasion once more against another of the Championship's top performers.
Unbeaten Run and Home Fortress
Albion enter this crucial encounter on the back of a six-game unbeaten streak, a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline under Morrison's guidance. This run includes notable performances against Southampton, Hull City, and Wrexham, from which they secured five points against teams currently positioned fifth to seventh in the league table. Morrison emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on their own game plan rather than dwelling on the league standings.
"We just have to focus on ourselves, that's all we can do," Morrison stated. "I am trying not to look at the table. I am just trying to focus on each game and picking up points. If we can do that, we will be fine. There is another home game coming up on Friday against a tough side. We tend to do well against tough sides."
Millwall's Challenge and Recent Form
Millwall, managed by Alex Neil, have been one of the Championship's surprise packages this season. They currently sit in second place after a victory over high-flying rivals Middlesbrough on Good Friday, although they suffered a setback with a loss to in-form Norwich City at The Den on Monday. This match promises to be a stern test for both teams, with Morrison acknowledging the diverse challenges Millwall presents.
"There have been good performances," Morrison added. "I am looking forward to a game against opponents who test you in many different ways."
Squad Depth and Injury Concerns
West Brom's recent goalless draw at Blackburn Rovers on Easter Monday extended their unbeaten run, but it also highlighted some squad depth issues. Despite the support of 7,500 traveling fans, the Baggies were unable to break the deadlock. Morrison made only one substitution, bringing on striker Daryl Dike with under 20 minutes remaining, and the bench featured five teenagers: Harry Whitwell, Ollie Bostock, Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, Hindolo Mustapha, and Eseosa Sule.
The team is currently hampered by injuries, though reinforcements are on the horizon. Key players such as Chris Mepham, Tammer Bany, and Karlan Grant are expected to return to action in the coming days, which could provide a timely boost. Morrison explained his cautious approach to substitutions against Blackburn, citing the need to maintain competitiveness.
"I was thinking about changing it all through the game on Monday but we were competitive and I didn't want to lose that," he said. "That's why I made a couple of changes to the line-up, to be competitive and fight. You saw that on Monday, so I have no complaints."
Looking Ahead to Friday's Clash
As Friday's match approaches under the lights at The Hawthorns, both teams will be eager to secure vital points. For West Brom, continuing their unbeaten run against a promotion-chasing side like Millwall would be a significant achievement. Morrison's confidence, rooted in recent performances and a resilient squad mentality, sets the stage for an enthralling Championship showdown.
