West Bromwich Albion have secured assistant coach Matt Gill on a permanent deal, sparking a surge of optimism as pre‑season training ramps up. Nat Phillips, the club’s centre‑back, confirmed the squad’s relief, saying the lads were "desperate" to keep Gill after his impact in the survival run.

How did Matt Gill become essential?

Gill arrived as a temporary assistant in late February, working under head coach James Morrison. His background includes stints at Swansea, Southampton and Rangers, and he quickly earned praise for high‑energy drills and clear tactical cues. Phillips noted that Gill’s sessions lifted the team’s intensity, describing the drills as “fast‑paced and focused". The assistant’s influence helped the club clinch enough points to stay up in the Championship.

What does Nat Phillips say about the new staff?

Phillips, 29, highlighted that the permanent appointment of Gill was a collective wish. “There’s a really positive feeling,” he told reporters. “All the lads were desperate for Gilly to stay – it wasn’t a secret.” He also welcomed the addition of Tony McMahon and Gavin Strachan, both of whom have integrated seamlessly, adding further vigor to training routines.

Why does this matter for the upcoming season?

With the squad now settled, Morrison can implement his full pre‑season plan without the uncertainty of staff turnover. Phillips believes the early work will translate into a competitive campaign, noting the Championship’s unpredictable nature. “We’ve seen how unpredictable the league is, but I’m looking forward to building on what we started under James Morrison at the end of last season,” he added.

Where does West Brom stand currently?

West Brom sit 21st in the Championship with 51 points after 46 games, recent form LDWWD. They have scored 48 goals and conceded 58, leaving a –10 goal difference, and sit 44 points behind leaders Coventry.

What’s next for the Baggies?

The pre‑season schedule now includes a series of friendlies designed to test the new tactical setups. Phillips is eager to see the concepts in action, stating, “It’s really exciting to put that into practice with a few games in pre‑season.” The club hopes the momentum generated by Gill’s permanence will carry through to a solid start in the league, aiming to climb out of the relegation zone.

How will fans react?

Supporters have taken to social media, applauding the stability in the backroom staff. Many see Gill’s retention as a sign that the club is committing to a long‑term vision rather than short‑term fixes. The optimism among fans mirrors the players’ sentiment, creating a unified front as West Brom prepares for the new campaign.