Express & Star

Chris Brunt eager for James Morrison to earn West Brom deal

Chris Brunt hopes fellow long-serving midfielder James Morrison will be able to earn a new contract at Albion.

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Chris Brunt is hopeful James Morrison can extend his stay at Albion (AMA)

Morrison returned from a 10-month lay-off last weekend with 50 minutes in Albion’s 3-1 pre-season win over Swindon Town.

The 32-year-old is officially a free agent after his Baggies contract ran out at the end of last month, but head coach Darren Moore is keen to offer him a new deal provided he can prove his fitness.

Brunt joined the Baggies a week after Morrison arrived in August 2007, and believes the midfield schemer was a big miss last season.

“He’s had a hard year,” said Brunt. “Obviously I know him well, and I’m delighted to see him back out there. I’m sure it will take him a few weeks to get back up to match speed but he’s been training with us for a couple of weeks and he looks sharp.

“We all know what a good player he is, and how big a loss he was to us last season.

“It’s no coincidence that when he wasn’t in the team we didn’t function as well so hopefully he can get himself back up to speed and get something sorted.”

However, Morrison and Brunt could be in direct competition for a place next season if the Scotland international stays.

Moore has been playing Brunt in central midfield alongside Jake Livermore, and while the Northern Irishman naturally sits a little deeper than Morrison, who can play number 10, they could be vying for the same spot.

“Obviously I played there at the back end of last season, the manager seems to see me in that position,” said Brunt. “Whatever’s best for the team you slot in and do a job whether it be central midfield, left wing, right wing, left back!

“It’s good to have a bit of versatility, it gives the manager a few options if he wants to use me in different ways.

“At the minute we’ve got a decent group of central midfielders, there’s a bit of competition in there.

“Obviously myself, Gareth (Barry), and Jake (Livermore), Sam Field when he gets fit and Mozza’s back involved as well.

“We’re quite strong in that area. I’ll just do whatever the manager picks me to do and do it the best of my abilities, as always.”