Charlie Austin delivers West Brom promotion prediction and James Morrison verdict

Charlie Austin believes West Bromwich Albion could be promoted this season.

So much has gone wrong at The Hawthorns in recent years that has left fans reeling.

Last season was the tip of the iceberg as the Baggies looked destined for League One.

The atmosphere around B71 was simply toxic and there didn't seem to be an end in sight.

That was until James Morrison came in and turned the ship around to remain in the Championship.

The new West Brom boss has now carried his side to the complete opposite end of the table and Austin believes supporters can dream of what is to come.

What has Charlie Austin said about West Brom's promotion chances?

It is fair to say that the former Southampton star knows a thing or two about Championship promotion.

The striker even did exactly that with the Baggies after firing home 10 second tier goals to earn a place in the Premier League.

The less said about the following campaign the better as the Black Country outfit have been stuck away from the top flight ever since.

Austin now believes that could soon change after the start the Albion have made under Morrison this season.

Speaking live via talkSPORT on Friday, he said: "They've had to take their medicine. They've done well to stay in the Championship over the last few years because of how tough it is. They've bided their time, James Morrison they've trusted and he's turned it right around.

"They've got a good group of players in there now, so there's every chance [They get promoted]. There's a long way to go."

How West Brom can be promoted

It is very early days yet to be suggesting that promotion is looking likely.

But in football, why not dream while you can.

That is exactly what the Baggies fans are doing right now with their side sat two points clear at the top of the Championship.

It won't be easy to maintain the level of form, but it could be possible.

Morrison will first need all of his best players to avoid injury, something which has already struck down Mikey Johnston once again.

He also needs Jimmy-Jay Morgan to keep picking up vital goals and assists.

Every side fighting for promotion needs a star player who knows where the net is, and the summer signing is exactly that.

As Austin says, there is a long way to go, but with the right attitude and luck, something special may happen at The Hawthorns this season.

Although that opinion may quickly change in the next three games with QPR, Wolves and Birmingham City coming up...