West Brom's Molumby Admits 'Too Much Respect' Hindered Season
West Bromwich Albion midfielder Jayson Molumby has openly discussed a significant shift in the team's mentality this season, admitting that the Baggies paid too much respect to their Championship opponents. In an exclusive interview with the Express & Star, the 26-year-old Irishman, who is in his fifth season at the club, highlighted how this attitude has impacted their performance in what he describes as a horror campaign.
A Change in Mindset Under Morrison
Molumby, serving as stand-in captain during recent games, praised caretaker manager James Morrison for his efforts to rescue a no-fear, dominant mindset at The Hawthorns. He explained that this season marked the first time in his experience at West Brom where the team entered matches with an excessive level of respect for rivals, rather than expecting to win or dominate games as they traditionally have.
At West Brom, it's probably the first year that we've went into games respecting teams too much, Molumby stated. Whereas I've always had the mindset and attitude playing for this club that you're expected to win every game, or you're expected to compete and be dominant in games.
Respect for Morrison Drives Turnaround
The midfielder attributed the recent improvement in form—six games unbeaten and 10 points from seven matches under Morrison—to the squad's deep respect for the caretaker boss. I think when you respect someone so much as a player and as a person it does add extra layers onto that, for sure, Molumby said. He emphasized Morrison's legendary status at the club and how his leadership has reinstated a sense of pride and motivation among the players.
Molumby acknowledged the challenges Morrison faced, being chucked in the deep end during a period when the club was struggling and faced the real possibility of relegation to the third tier for the first time since 1993. Despite this, Morrison has led the team to an improbable unbeaten run, including four draws, which has boosted survival hopes.
Season Struggles and Recent Resurgence
West Bromwich Albion has endured one of its poorest seasons in decades, with managerial changes seeing both Ryan Mason and Eric Ramsay axed earlier in the campaign. The team's low point included a winless nine-game stint under Ramsay, but under Morrison, they have shown resilience. Only Coventry, Norwich, and Derby have taken more points in the same period as Morrison's tenure.
Reflecting on the season's turmoil, Molumby admitted it was hard to process but credited the collective effort from Morrison and the staff behind the scenes. He's had to put in a massive effort and shift and all the staff have behind the scenes, he added, highlighting the unity that has contributed to their recent upturn in form.
