James Morrison: West Bromwich Albion appoint former midfielder as permanent head coach

West Bromwich Albion have appointed James Morrison as head coach on a two-year contract after steering the club to Championship safety.

The former Baggies midfielder, 39, stepped up on an interim basis after Eric Ramsay was sacked in late February and was put in charge until the end of the campaign a week later.

Under Morrison, Albion have been revitalised, winning four, drawing six and only losing once – his first game against Oxford United.

In that time, the Baggies dropped into the relegation zone before seemingly moving decisively clear by beating Watford only to be hit with a two-point penalty for breaking financial rules that meant they could still go down with two games to play.

But relegation to League One was officially avoided with a point in their final home match against Ipswich Town.

“I’m honoured and humbled to have been appointed as head coach of this great football club,” Morrison said.

“The togetherness we have displayed in recently months – as players, staff, directors and fans – shows the enormous power of the Albion when it’s focused on a collective goal.”