West Brom boss James Morrison underlines Max O'Leary quality
Max O’Leary was at his best to help the Baggies claim a point from Saturday’s clash at QPR.
James Morrison has underlined his belief in Albion’s Max O’Leary as a play-off standard goalkeeper.
O’Leary played a key role as the Baggies claimed a point from last weekend’s draw against QPR and will be looking to keep Wolves at bay in Sunday’s Black Country derby.
The Republic of Ireland international shot-stopper made two fine second-half saves, one particularly sharp to keep out Kwame Poku as Albion fans responded by chanting his name.
The experienced O’Leary turns 30 next month but, despite a bright 17-match cameo for the club in the spring after his free transfer arrival, there some discourse about Morrison’s options between the sticks when the goalkeeper agreed a summer contract extension.
“Yes - he’s showing with his performances,” Morrison said of former Bristol City man O’Leary.
“He’s doing really well.
“I just think it’s where we’re at as a club really. Max, through all of his career, has always been a top-eight goalkeeper.
“I’m really pleased to have him. We’ve asked him to be a little bit different with his feet, as well.
“But his shot-stopping is fantastic.”
O’Leary played his part in nine clean sheets in the second half of last season to help a resurgent Morrison’s side claw back Championship safety.
Back-to-back recent shutouts against Watford and Derby have added some steel to a young, vibrant, attack-minded Baggies side under Morrison this term.
Albion midfield star Ousmane Diakite, meanwhile, is expected to return to the starting line-up for Sunday’s derby showdown at Molineux.
The Mali international was handed a breather against the Rs last time out while also sitting on three Championship yellow cards, with five resulting in a one-match ban.
The combative Diakite picked up a late caution having been introduced from the bench to take his tally up to five in all competitions this term - but Morrison had been doing his homework on the suspension’s rules.
“I was obviously checking that!” He smiled. “And the EFL Cup game don’t count.
“It’s inevitable that he’s going to get suspended at some point - but we’ve got players to come in.”
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.