West Bromwich Albion manager James Morrison has pledged his team will stick to their attacking beliefs for Saturday's Championship match against Watford. The Baggies host the Hornets at The Hawthorns in a 3pm kick-off, looking to build on their current league position of 7th with 7 points from their opening four games.
Morrison's comments follow a midweek draw against Charlton Athletic, a game West Brom dominated in possession but failed to win. The manager emphasized the need for balance as his side prepares for a Watford team that has taken early points against Southampton, Wrexham, and West Ham United this season. This information was reported by West Bromwich Albion's official outlet.
What is the team's current form?
West Bromwich Albion's start to the 2026/27 Sky Bet Championship campaign has been solid if unspectacular. Their record stands at two wins, one draw, and one loss, placing them seventh in the table. They have scored 7 goals and conceded 6, giving them a +1 goal difference. The recent form guide reads DLWW, showing resilience after an opening day defeat. They currently sit three points behind early leaders Swansea City.
The midweek 1-1 draw with Charlton, where the visitors scored with their only shot on target, highlighted both the team's control and a need for sharper finishing. Morrison acknowledged his side had Charlton pinned back for long periods but couldn't convert their dominance into three points.
Who is available for the Watford game?
Morrison provided a clear update on his squad's fitness ahead of the weekend. "We’ve not got any new injuries," the manager stated. Key attacker Mikey Johnston, who is currently sidelined, is awaiting confirmation on his availability due to an ankle issue that flared up from last season.
New signing Brayann Pereira has completed two days of training and has settled in well with the group. Striker Aune Heggebø is gradually returning to full fitness after an illness, an absence Morrison felt was keenly missed in the box against Charlton. Youngster Tammer Bany is scheduled to play for the under-21s this weekend as part of a managed progression plan.
How will West Brom approach the match?
James Morrison was clear about his footballing philosophy. "I think you need to find the balance between being dominant with attacking football and being tight at the back," he said. This suggests West Brom will look to control the game through possession and pressure, a style they exhibited against Charlton, while being more alert defensively.
The aim will be to impose their game on Watford from the start at The Hawthorns. Morrison believes sticking to their core principles is the best path to success, rather than making drastic tactical changes. The team's standings position shows they are within touching distance of the top, and a win could see them climb significantly.
What comes after the Watford fixture?
Focus is firmly on Saturday, but the schedule continues quickly. West Brom's next Championship fixture is an away trip to face Derby County on Wednesday, 9th September 2026. This means managing the squad's fitness and energy levels will be important over this short period.
Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule, including the Derby match, on the club's fixtures page. With the season still in its early stages, every point is valuable in what promises to be a tightly-contested division. The match against Watford represents an immediate opportunity to gain ground. West Bromwich Albion face Derby County at Pride Park on September 9th.
