'A potentially pivotal day in Albion's future'

The events of today could prove to be hugely pivotal in Albion's future direction.

Although he hasn't registered a direct goal contribution since their last victory against QPR in December, Mikey Johnston remains their most creative talent.

The winger is a constant distraction for opposition defenders, so his absence is a major blow.

With Karlan Grant still a few weeks away from full fitness after hamstring surgery, it may finally open the door fully for 19‑year‑old Ollie Bostock.

The academy graduate was the only positive in their weekend defeat at relegation rivals Oxford.

He scored his first senior goal with a deflected effort after replacing the injured Republic of Ireland international.

The other significant development has come in the dugout and it's a move aimed at short‑term stability rather than complete change as former midfielder James Morrison will continue as interim head coach.

He certainly has the passion needed to drag Albion out of this mess, as he displayed in his post-match media duties at the Kassam Stadium, but will the players respond to the brutally honest assessment he delivered after the 2–1 loss?

It was refreshing to hear, but his "big defender" Krystian Bielik and goalkeeper Max O'Leary may not take kindly to being called out so publicly.

What was also clear when I spoke to Mozza on Saturday was that he would need help to steer the Baggies clear of the Championship drop zone.

The club have provided that in the form of Matt Gill. Some fans may raise an immediate red flag due to his association with Russell Martin, who it's safe to say has split public opinion in recent years.

Gill worked alongside him at Southampton and Rangers, but the 45‑year‑old assistant is a different character to Martin and widely respected as a coach.

He will provide a fresh voice to a fragile group of players, and a sounding board for Morrison, who was thinking out loud in his post‑match interview about how to approach their next game at Sheffield United.

The club legend first arrived at The Hawthorns 19 years ago and celebrated two promotions to the Premier League as a player.

Now as a manager, he has just 11 games to avoid relegation to League One. With what is at stake for the club's long-term future that may turn out to be the biggest achievement of his Baggies career.