Exclusive: Phillips thrilled by West Brom announcement as ‘Lively character’ joins staff
We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…
Kevin Phillips is thrilled to see that his former team-mate James Morrison has bagged himself a job in the West Brom coaching set-up.
Last week, Albion announced that ‘Mozza’ has agreed to become the new assistant manager of the Under-23s side.
Morrison hung up his boots last year and was handed a trial period within the Baggies’ academy to see how he would adapt from turning his playing career into a coaching one.
Former striker Phillips believes that there is no one better suited to the role than Morrison due to his vast experience of playing for the Black Country club.
“He’s been there a long time and he knows the club inside out. The players will have respect for him because of what he’s done in the game,” Phillips told West Brom News.
“Knowing him quite well, he’s a bubbly, lively character.”
Phillips went on to add that more clubs should follow in West Brom’s footsteps by welcoming former players to their coaching staff because of their inside knowledge of the team.
“For me, it’s great to see that the club is looking after players who’ve been there a long time and giving them jobs within the football club. I’ve always felt that more clubs should do that,” Phillips continued.
“James has more experience and more passion for that team than the majority of everyone else at the club.”
Morrison made 341 appearances in all competitions for West Brom.
He suffered with injuries towards the end of his spell at The Hawthorns and it is likely that contributed to his decision to retire at the age of 33.
It will be great for Albion’s young, up-and-coming players to learn from someone who’s done so much for the club.
In other West Brom news, Bilic has a major dilemma on the horizon for once the season resumes.
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