James Morrison eyes dream Black Country derby result for West Brom

West Bromwich Albion coach James Morrison says the Black Country derby has been on his mind all season and insists the squad is determined to deliver a positive result for supporters at Molineux.

James Morrison has underlined West Bromwich Albion's determination to secure a positive result for their supporters in Sunday's Black Country derby against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Baggies coach, who played in a famous 5-1 victory at Molineux, believes the squad is ready to rise to the occasion and stamp their authority on the fixture.

Fixture a long-term focus

Morrison revealed the lunchtime kick-off has been a focal point since the schedule was released. "This is a fixture which has probably been on my mind ever since the fixture list came out," he said. "It’s the game you look for first." He described derbies as great occasions that mean everything to the club and its people, adding that the atmosphere and build-up are what make players want to compete in such matches. The 4th-placed Baggies travel across the Black Country with 14 points from their opening seven Championship games, their form reading two wins, two draws and one defeat from the last five.

Drawing on past glory

The coach can draw on personal experience, having been part of the side that triumphed 5-1 at Molineux in a Premier League encounter. He said that result is still talked about today and he remembers it vividly, with a picture from the day serving as a lasting reminder. That memory fuels his desire for the current group to create their own positive history. "I really want the team and the supporters to experience us getting a really positive result there," Morrison stated. He wants the fans to enjoy the game and sees Sunday as an opportunity for players to make their mark at the club.

Building on early-season work

Morrison stressed the importance of carrying their early-season commitment into the derby, not deviating from the fight and intensity that has characterised their start. The head coach has noted a slight difference in the squad's atmosphere during a week of intense training specifically geared towards the derby. That work, the gaffer said, should breed confidence from a start that proves they can compete with anyone in the division, even away from home. While acknowledging it is a tough game, the coaching staff believe the team is in a good place and must remind themselves of their position to ensure standards do not drop. They want to play their game and have players confident they can do so on the road.

Injury concerns persist with Mikey Johnston and Nolan Galves currently sidelined, but top scorer J. Morgan, with three goals this season, will be a key figure. The preparation has been thorough, with Morrison vowing to do everything to ensure the right frame of mind. The club's recent standings position provides a platform, and a look at the fixtures shows this is the first of a critical period. Supporters will be hoping for a performance that matches the early-season promise shown in wins over Derby and Watford, and a draw against QPR last time out. The derby kicks off at midday on Sunday at Molineux, where Albion fans have been in attendance since February 2012.