Interviews

Alex Mowatt looking to create 'special' atmosphere for Hawthorns anniversary clash with Derby County

A photo of Alex Mowatt in the 2025/26 home kit

Alex Mowatt says Saturday's Hawthorns anniversary match against Derby County will be a "proud moment for all of the lads" who are involved on a "special day" in Albion's history. 

This weekend sees the Baggies return to Sky Bet Championship action against the Rams - with the encounter carrying additional meaning to the faithful as it is the closest fixture to the club's 125th anniversary at their home stadium. 

Midfielder Mowatt, who signed a new contract with Albion before the international break, has enjoyed a number of positive atmospheres during his four-year stay in B71, and he hopes Ryan Mason's men can create another of those on Saturday and give supporters "something to celebrate" on a historic day for The Hawthorns.  

A photo of Alex Mowatt in action against Portsmouth wearing the 2025/26 home kit

"It’ll be a proud moment for all the lads to be involved in such a special day for the club," said Mowatt.

"It’s going to be an exciting one, the atmosphere is going to be great and we just want to make it a game to remember and play a small part in a big bit of history of this football club.

"The main thing, as always, is to go out there and produce our best to try and gain a positive result on what will be such a special day and we want to give the fans something to celebrate. 

"There's been many great nights and it's a special stadium.

"For me, the best is probably the play-off game against Southampton. When the coach was driving in, the atmosphere around the place, when coming out for the game, was a special one for me and that's the best I've seen the atmosphere since I've been here

A photo of Alex Mowatt in front of Albion fans at The Hawthorns during the Southampton play-off match in May 2024

"There’s a passionate set of fans at Albion and you get that both ways. We always say when we’re doing well in matches, they’ll let you know and if they're not happy, they'll let you know too! 

"If you're playing well, winning tackles and getting the fans off their feet, that’s when The Hawthorns is right behind you.

"I’ve really enjoyed my time here. There’ve been ups and downs, great nights and with the gaffer coming in this season, it feels like an exciting season ahead. 

"There's younger players around the team, new faces, we've started well and that’s something I want to play a part in continuing.

"Fans remember moments from many years ago, so this season would be another one of those moments and, hopefully, we can get a positive result so everyone remembers it as a good day."

A photo of Albion supporters at The Hawthorns

Alex doesn't stop there on the Shrine, as he details some of his favourite nights, goals, and what Albion's home means to him in an extended interview in Saturday's Albion News. 

Check out the full interview in Saturday’s 125-year Hawthorns special, 100-page anniversary edition. Copies can be purchased for £5 around The Hawthorns or, alternatively, be pre-ordered online here

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