James Morrison has praised his players for their efforts at the end of a demanding pre-season training camp in Portugal.
The head coach worked his squad hard during a week-long trip to Albufeira, which was rounded-off with a 4-1 friendly victory over Bromley at Estadio da Nora on Friday.
New strikers Jimmy-Jay Morgan and Barney Stewart were on the scoresheet alongside Aune Heggebø and youngster Jack Bray, as the Baggies finished their productive time away by getting more valuable match minutes under their belts.
And Morrison - speaking to WBA TV after Friday night’s game - said he “couldn’t have asked for more” from his players throughout an encouraging seven days.
“I emphasised on hard work. We made that a big part of early on in the week,” explained Morrison.
“I’ve seen a lot of hands on knees, which is pleasing. The hard work creates a bit of a culture and an environment.
“The first thing you do after a hard run is go and pick your team-mate up or give them a high five and say well done. We certainly got that.
“We had a nice balance of young players and experienced players all working in the right direction. I couldn’t ask for any more of the players, they’ve given me everything, so I’m really happy with that.
“I’m a little bit frustrated with the game but overall to score the four goals that was did was pleasing, and more minutes in the bank for everyone. There was some good bits, and there will be bits we can improve on.
“That’s what pre-season is for - to get us in the right frame of mind, the right performance, and to get ready for Rotherham.
“The game was there for us to put what we had done this week into practice. It is a process. We’re trying to get better in possession, because last year we did the defensive part really well. The togetherness, the steel as a team. But I just thought we could be better with the ball so we can last the 90 minutes attacking.
“That’s how I want to see my football team. Attacking, being brave on the ball, but also with that steel that we had last year.
And Morrison also thanked the hundreds of Baggies fans who made the journey to support the squad.
“It was fantastic to see the pictures from the pubs today. It’s nice for the fans to connect with the players,” added the boss.
“Before the game I had a nice chat with a few. That’s what pre-season is for, to build on those connections between the fans and the players.
“We’ve got some new faces in, and that’s what it’s about - building relationships because we’re going to need that going forward.”
