Jed Wallace makes 'horrible side' claim as West Brom skipper issues warning following positive Championship start

If you'd had offered most Albion fans seven points and an unbeaten start from the first three Championship games - you'd probably have taken it.

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Victories over Blackburn and Wrexham handed Ryan Mason the perfect start to life in the Hawthorns dugout.

A 1-1 draw against Portsmouth followed - in game where Albion could have taken all three points. However, another positive display and unbeaten in three games is a solid way to kick off the campaign.

And Albion skipper Jed Wallace, who came off the bench to score in the win over Wrexham has warned that despite the positivity around the Hawthorns at the moment, it is 'only a start'.

Speaking prior to Albion's latest outing, he also explained how there is a key element that Albion need to get right this season - something they didn't quite manage enough in the previous campaign.

He said: "I think the lads have shown both individual quality and collective quality during our games.

"Above that though, everyone has demonstrated an ability to dig in, graft and fight for each other.

"We didn't do the horrible side of things enough last season, and it's important we get that right this year because you need to win ugly sometimes in this league."

"It's been a strong start - but it's only a start. We're nowhere near achieving anything yet.

"We have a responsibility to make sure we stay grounded and keep working hard, because the Championship is a full blown marathon, not a 100 metre sprint."

Wallace has also paid tribute to one of his former team mates - and a member of the experienced leadership within the Albion dressing room.

Kyle Bartley pitchside at half time of West Brom's clash with Portsmouth (Photo by Adam Fradgley/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images)
Kyle Bartley pitchside at half time of West Brom's clash with Portsmouth (Photo by Adam Fradgley/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images)

Kyle Bartley announced his retirement earlier this summer after struggling to get over knee problem.

He was back at The Hawthorns on Saturday - where he indicated that he has been in talks with the club's owners over a potential role at the club.

Wallace added: "Away from the first few matches, I just wanted to pay tribute to Kyle Bartley.

"He hangs up his boots having experienced a brilliant career, including giving this football club seven years of service.

"He won promotion here, made more than 200 appearances, helped lead the group and always put his body on the line."