Why James Morrison wanted West Brom to keep Matt Gill - and new coach's top bosses influence

Albion boss James Morrison believes he has assembled a strong group of varied personalities in his backroom team for the new season.

The Baggies have tied down influential coach Matt Gill - long-term former Russell Martin assistant - after his key role in helping the club to Championship survival last term.

Kent-born Gill has checked in as Morrison’s permanent assistant. The news will go down well with the Baggies squad, with whom Gill was a popular coach as “lively” and possession-heavy sessions inspired players.

Further additions to the Scot’s coaching staff included Morrison’s long-term associate and former Middlesbrough team-mate Tony McMahon, 40, who has held off-field roles at Scunthorpe United and York City. He checked in as first-team coach alongside Gavin Strachan.

Scot Strachan, 47, spent six years as a coach at Celtic working under established top quality bosses having also been assistant to Darren Ferguson at Doncaster and Peterborough.

Morrison said: “It’s great to have Gilly on board for the coming season because he’s a great coach and I enjoyed working with him last year.

“The players enjoyed working with him, too, and his efforts were important in us getting over the line.

“I’m also delighted to add Gavin Strachan to the group. Having a new pair of eyes from somebody with Gavin’s experience will help us massively.

“He has worked alongside some top managers, like Martin O’Neill, Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers, and will no doubt bring fresh ideas with him.

“I know Tony well from our time together at Middlesbrough. He’s had a variety of jobs in the game - and he knows me better than anyone in football. He’s somebody I trust and whose opinion I’ve always valued.”

Spanish coach Damia Abella has left The Hawthorns after three years on the backroom staff under Carlos Corberan, Tony Mowbray, Ryan Mason, Eric Ramsay and Morrison.

Abella, who secured his UEFA Pro Licence qualification this summer, was a popular member of the Baggies backroom team.

Goalkeeper coach Boaz Myhill remains in place, with experienced academy coach Leigh Downing returning to his role of under-21s boss.

Morrison added: “Alongside Boaz, they make up what I believe is a strong group around me. They all have different personalities, qualities, and an excellent work ethic, which is important for what we want to do.

“Lastly, I would again like to thank the whole coaching team for their efforts in helping us get over the line last season.

“That gratitude certainly extends to Damia, who was a pleasure to work with during his whole time here. I’m sure everyone will join me in wishing him the very best of luck in whatever comes next.”