West Brom's James Morrison highlights Wolves triple threat and does not buy derby experience theory

Albion boss James Morrison does not buy the theory he has the edge over Wolves’ Cesar Peixoto due to Black Country derby experience.

Morrison was involved in five local clashes against Wolves as a player, despite the fact the clubs did not meet again after Albion’s 5-1 Molineux rout for the rest of the Scot’s playing career.

Sunday is his first as head coach as Morrison locks horns with Wolves counterparts Peixoto. The Portuguese coach was appointed in the summer to replace Rob Edwards.

It has been suggested Morrison’s experience in the fixture could give Albion the upper hand in the Molineux showdown, but the Baggies boss sees the hosts as favourites. Peixoto managed six clubs in his homeland between 2019 and 2026 and had a playing career of 15 years span more than 200 games.

Morrison said of the advantage claims: "I'm sure he's been in enough derby games throughout his career, so I'm sure he'll understand them just as much as me.”

Wolves’ victory over Albion in 2024 was settled by goals from Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha, who subsequently departed for Chelsea and Manchester United respectively.

Both squads look very different from two years ago and Morrison added: "It's natural (squad movement) but it's credit to Wolves for having those players and selling them on to bigger clubs.

"When you lose those types of players then you can drop out of the division.

"But they have some exciting players in (Fer) Lopez and (Rodrigo) Gomes, (Mateus) Mane, a young player coming through, so we have to be right on our game defensively.”

Morrison tasted victory in three wins from his five playing battles with Wolves, including the 5-1 last time out at Molineux in front of fans.

The head coach said: "I've been here long enough and in games like this before. I can feel the passion through everyone.

"I believe these are the games you want to be involved in.

"The outcome can be really positive, for the players and myself you can cement special places with people with your performances and incidents in these games.”