'The boss brought real clarity' - Goalkeeper Max O'Leary opens up on James Morrison's West Brom influence

Max O’Leary claimed Albion boss James Morrison brought “clarity” to the squad and helped make the decision to agree a long-term stay an easy call.

The goalkeeper, 29, signed a new three-year contract at The Hawthorns on Tuesday.

He was an important part of the survival push under James Morrison and kept eight clean sheets in 16 games for Morrison’s improved side.

And Republic of Ireland international O’Leary revealed the squad are determined to make strides under Morrison next season after the former coach was confirmed as permanent boss.

“It wasn’t the position we wanted to be in last season, but, ultimately, we earned safety by putting together a great run of results and performances as a whole group,” O’Leary said.

“There are some top players in this squad and we want to push on and ensure we have a really strong year under James Morrison.

“The boss brought real clarity of what he wanted from us as players last season.

“Knowing that he was staying on as the permanent boss certainly made my decision easier. I’m really looking forward to working with him again in 2026/27.”

Bath-born O’Leary came through the academy ranks at boyhood club Bristol City and had loans as a youngster with Solihull Moors, Kidderminster Harriers and Shrewsbury Town.

He originally moved to Albion on a six-month deal from Ashton Gate in January as the Baggies, then under Eric Ramsay, sought improvements in the goalkeeping department.

It had been a desperate season of struggle for the Baggies under Morrison’s predecessors Ryan Mason and Ramsay and Albion appeared doomed to relegation before the late 10-match unbeaten run.

It was a season of upheaval between the sticks, too, as academy graduate Josh Griffiths began the season as No.1, but was dropped for Joe Wildsmith in December.

Mason returned to Griffiths in his final game in charge, before the club made a late January move to recruit O’Leary.

The keeper said: “I’m very happy to have signed a new contract here. I wanted to commit as soon as the club reached out to me.

“Everyone associated with the Albion was so welcoming when I arrived in January. Players, staff and fans made it a great experience, so I wanted to continue that.

“It was nice to contribute in a positive way in the second half of the season. With the help of the outfield players, we managed to secure plenty of clean sheets, which, as a goalkeeper, is always a big plus.”