BAGGIES HAVE GOT A GRIP ON DIVISION – GIBBS
KIERAN Gibbs believes West Brom have improved their ability to adapt to life in the Championship.
The Baggies took time to settle in the second tier following relegation from the Premier League last season.
“We started the season differently to how we’re playing at the moment,” said the 29-year-old.
“It’s a matter of working things out in the opening 15, 20 minutes of games. We’re starting to learn as a team about gaining control of a game.
“We say ‘OK, what are the answers? Can we spot ways to unlock a team?’ We’ve got to keep that going.
“No games look after themselves in this league. You have to give everything for every game.”
Gibbs also paid tribute to the Baggies’ loyal supporters, who have followed the team through thick and thin.
The former Arsenal left-back added: “They’ve been brilliant all season and especially the last away game (at Sheff Utd).”
Gibbs is part of a West Brom defence that includes Craig Dawson, who was linked with a move away from the Hawthorns during the summer.
Dawson, 28, has operated at right-back in previous seasons, but has since moved into the centre, a position he prefers.
“I have always felt centre-half was my strongest position and the one I enjoyed playing most,” said Dawson.
“Those years at rightback were a good education for me and they helped expand my game. It was a chance to play in the first team at top-flight level. But I’m really enjoying the role now.
“Ahmed Hegazi and I have complemented each other’s games from the moment we came together and at the end of last season we showed what we can do. He’s a reliable lad to have alongside – hopefully he thinks the same about me!”