West Bromwich Albion has undergone a significant transformation in recent weeks, moving from the brink of relegation to a more promising position. This dramatic shift is largely attributed to the strategic overhaul implemented by James Morrison, who inherited a team struggling with both defensive vulnerabilities and, more critically, a severe lack of offensive output. His philosophy, while seemingly straightforward, involved sophisticated tactical adjustments that have breathed new life into the squad, reinstating their historical reputation for attacking football.
Just over two weeks ago, West Bromwich Albion faced a precarious future, teetering on the edge of relegation. The team had managed to secure only a single point from two crucial matches. The initial setback was a draw at home against Charlton, a result that led to Eric Ramsay's departure. This was followed by a lackluster performance and defeat against Oxford, prompting James Morrison to openly challenge his players' reluctance to take risks with the ball. His critique was justified; the Baggies' play had become predictable and uninspiring.
Ramsay had made some progress in tightening the defense, conceding only three goals in his final four league matches. However, Morrison recognized that the primary issue lay in the team's offensive struggles, with only three goals scored in their preceding eight league games. Drawing inspiration from Bill Shankly's adage about football's simplicity, Morrison devised a remarkably straightforward yet effective strategy: to position players who possess goal-scoring ability in prime attacking areas more frequently. This foundational principle guided his subsequent tactical decisions, aiming to unlock the team's scoring potential.
Morrison's tactical refinements included placing skilled passers like George Campbell and Krystian Bielik in defensive roles, though Bielik's stint was cut short by injury against Sheffield United. He also addressed the team's dire need for speed by integrating Danny Imray at right-back. A notable change was the benching of Alex Mowatt, a player who had been a regular starter under four previous managers. Mowatt was replaced by more physically robust and dynamic midfielders, Jayson Molumby and Ousmane Diakite, who, despite perhaps being less technically gifted, brought a much-needed intensity to the midfield. Crucially, Morrison deployed Isaac Price in an inverted role on the left, a position where Price had previously demonstrated prolific scoring for his national team.
The impact of Price's new role has been profound. His average expected goals (xG) per game has tripled, and he recently ended a goal drought with a score against Hull. In their commanding 3-0 victory over the Tigers, Albion recorded an impressive 48 touches in the opposition box, leading to 26 shots on goal—a volume not seen from the team in over four years. This surge in offensive opportunities has invigorated the forwards. Aune Heggebo and Josh Maja both found the net for the first time since December and October, respectively. While Daryl Dike is still awaiting his first goal, he did contribute with an assist against Southampton, indicating a broader improvement in the team's attacking cohesion. Historically, West Bromwich Albion has been known for its attacking style of play, and Morrison, as a club legend, has successfully rekindled this tradition, reminding both the club and its players of their responsibility to entertain and perform with an offensive mindset, which could be vital for their continued success.