James Morrison eager to keep the right 'environment' at West Brom

James Morrison says any new signings must fit into the culture he has created at Albion.

The club legend is preparing for his first season as head coach, after saving the Baggies from relegation while in interim charge last term.

Plenty of work lies ahead with goalkeeper Max O’Leary, who joined the club on a short-term deal in January, the only new player to have agreed terms.

In addition to adding quality recruits, Morrison is eager to maintain the spirit which saw Albion embark on a 10-match unbeaten run to achieve survival over the final two months of the campaign.

He said: "I've created an environment that I like. I know the players.

"If you're talking about head starts, then I've had two months of putting a system in place and players knowing it.

"So in that case I've had a head start with what we've done for two months.”

He continued: "It's important. There will be a process of working together with everyone.

"I hope that's really important, to come together, because when you work together you can build success.”

O’Leary, brought in by Morrison’s predecessor Eric Ramsay, signed a three-year contract after impressing following his switch from Bristol City.

Albion have offered a new deal to striker Josh Maja and are in talks with his fellow forward, Karlan Grant, over a fresh contract. Both are due to become free agents at the end of the month.

Morrison also has work to do in finalising his coaching staff. The short-term appointment of Russell Martin’s long-time assistant, Matt Gill, as his No.2 proved a shrewd move during the run-in.

Albion would like Gill to stay on yet the situation could be complicated should Martin move back into management at Leicester.

The 40-year-old, out of work since being sacked by Rangers last October, has been in advanced talks with the Foxes following their relegation to League One.

Martin and Gill previously worked together at MK Dons, Swansea and Southampton.

Morrison may also have scope to further expand his backroom team, after opting against doing so during the season’s final weeks.