West Brom hero James Morrison learning how hard it is to be a coach
Albion fan favourite James Morrison admits he probably owes some of his former managers an apology after taking his first steps on the coaching ladder.
The popular midfielder, who made 341 appearances for the Baggies during 12 years at The Hawthorns, initially joined the club’s academy staff on a voluntary basis after announcing his retirement in October.
Last week the 33-year-old was confirmed as assistant to under-23s boss Deon Burton and he admits the switch from playing to coaching has given him a different perspective.
“I’ve got a lot to learn,” he said. “I didn’t fully realise what goes on this side of things can be quite so different and I probably owe a few of my old managers an apology!
“I’m just going to take it step by step. I’m not going to get ahead of myself. Football is a game that can take you to some very high places as a player but I’m not going to see those as I did for 15 years as a player. I will take it season by season and step by step.”
Morrison admits the switch to coaching was not always smooth and he was initially unsure whether to continue.
“It was a new way of life really, out of my comfort zone,” he said. “Having a career for 15 years and that stopping, it took time. But the coaching has given me a different focus and I am grateful for that.
“I see my former team-mates and that is quite strange. They are going out to train and I have my coach’s kit on. But it is all part and parcel of it moving forward.
“As a player, you are very focused on what you do, every day, finish your training but then leave and go home to relax. As a coach, you are thinking about everything, every day, every minute.
“But I’ve learned from football what hard work is. Football gives you that mindset of working hard to achieve and knowing that it’s working hard that gets you where you want to go.
“Unfortunately, I had injuries to overcome and known what it is to be in at 8 and last out. I’ve worked long, long hours and I’m no stranger to working hard.
“I’m enjoying being in with the group, watching them learn, being in that training environment while at the same time I’m trying to learn new tricks. There’s plenty of talent to work with in the Academy, that is for sure.
“But I think some of them have got to get used to how hard it’s going to be to get to the top. Hopefully, I can help instil that in them. Hard work, determination…there’s no short cut.”
