West Brom comment: Actions speak louder than words as Shilen Patel jets in for Eric Ramsay's unveiling

His mere presence delivered the message better than any words ever could.

Nearly two years since his Bilkul Football Group completed a takeover of Albion which staved off the very real threat of financial oblivion, Patel's ownership has reached a critical point.

Despite many hard yards gained in fixing the Baggies’ off-field position, where it matters most they have been found wanting.

Ramsay is their third managerial appointment in the space of 12 months and Patel’s attendance, taking the place at the top table usually reserved for sporting director Andrew Nestor, appeared a clear attempt by the owner to reinforce his commitment and show supporters he both understands the gravity of the situation and isn’t shying away from it.

“I’m relishing it,” remarked Patel at one point in a media session, his first in front of newspapers since the takeover, for which he had flown across the Atlantic specifically to attend.

Coupled with a separate breakaway with radio journalists, the new head coach and the owner spent more than an hour taking questions. You certainly could not accuse Patel of not fronting up.

Admittedly, there was a reluctance, perhaps understandably, to rake over too much of the immediate past. 

Patel insisted the club had “no regrets” over last summer’s appointment of Ryan Mason, though later conceded there had been “lessons learned” during a year which has seen two selections as head coach miserably fail.

Despite the well-publicised financial restraints, there is a clear belief the current squad is better than 18th in the Championship.