James Morrison Reveals West Brom's 'Biggest Challenge' After International Break
West Bromwich Albion manager James Morrison has opened up about the significant hurdle his team faces following the international break, as they aim to preserve their momentum in a tight Championship relegation battle.
Maintaining Momentum in Relegation Dogfight
Morrison admitted he has been deeply contemplating how to keep Albion's positive form alive after the break. The Baggies are currently on a four-match unbeaten streak, their best run since the early weeks of the season, fueled by Morrison's leadership since his role was extended until the campaign's end.
The team signed off with rare back-to-back victories, and Morrison highlighted the players' eagerness to return to action. "The momentum that we've been on, I think they all want to just keep going, they've got no time to think, I've been there," he said.
He added, "I think they're just eager to get back on the pitch, and the feeling that wins bring with that, and the celebrations after, they want that again. It's a nice challenge really, you've got no time to think about it really, you just roll into it, I think sometimes it's better just to roll into it."
Key Fixtures Ahead for Survival Push
Albion can take major steps toward securing Championship survival with positive results in two crucial upcoming matches:
- Friday's home game against Wrexham.
- Easter Monday's pivotal six-pointer away at Blackburn Rovers.
Morrison emphasized that maintaining performance levels is the squad's primary focus. "That's the challenge again, it's been in the back of my mind, what do I need to do when we're back in here to maintain that, and that's probably the biggest challenge we've got. Can we maintain that performance that we've been doing, and that belief?" he questioned.
Fixture Changes Due to Broadcast Scheduling
In related news, West Brom have experienced another fixture adjustment because of television scheduling. Their penultimate match of the season, a home game against automatic promotion-chasing Ipswich Town, has been moved to a 12:30 PM kick-off on Saturday, April 25.
This clash at The Hawthorns marks the final home game of the season and will be the last fixture altered due to TV selections. Additionally, the season finale away at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, May 2, has already been confirmed for a 12:30 PM start, consistent with the division's scheduling.
As the Championship season reaches its climax, Morrison and his team are focused on overcoming these logistical hurdles and delivering results to ensure their place in the league for another year.
