Deja vu at Albion - but this time feels different
Fan writer Jonny Drury makes a case for why West Bromwich Albion's good start feels different this time around.
The familiar feeling at Albion this season is different from the one experienced 12 months ago. With a strong start, the team has won games and accumulated points early in the campaign. This has happened for the past three seasons under managers Carlos Corberan and Ryan Mason. However, this season's start, under James Morrison, feels distinct.
Fans may have expected this beginning last season but Albion found themselves in a relegation battle. Despite the mindset of not getting too carried away, the Morrison side is showing a different approach. Adaptability and a non-one-dimensional style are evident in both league games and the Newcastle match. They can sit back, absorb pressure, and prove difficult to beat, as well as dominate possession and create chances, as demonstrated in their victory over Burnley.
The team also possesses the quality to hurt opponents on the counter attack, as seen against Norwich and at times against Newcastle.
In previous seasons, Albion's managers were accused of being too one-dimensional, lacking the ability to showcase Plan B or C. However, in the limited sample size of games under Morrison, the team is displaying the capability to adapt tactically. Albion supporters are aware of the past but recognize that something different is happening under Morrison.
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