Murray: We need to build on West Ham comeback

Glenn Murray says Albion might be able to look back on last Saturday’s result at West Ham as a turning point in the season - providing they build on it today against Watford.

Bruce Talbot

2020-02-08T07:00:00Z

Glenn Murray shrugs off Angelo Ogbonna last weekend.

Murray, restored to starting line-up for the first time since September, scored as Albion came from 3-1 down with 15 minutes to go and drew 3-3 last Saturday against West Ham United at the London Stadium.

But the striker insists it will count for little if they can’t overcome another tough challenge against the Hornets.

“We’ve got to dwell on the here and now and coming from two goals down in any Premier League game is difficult, especially away from home,” said Murray. “So, we left that game with a bit of momentum and hopefully we can take that into Watford and the games after today.

“Can it be a turning point? That remains to be seen. Hopefully we can look back at the end of the season and say it was, but ultimately it’s about getting points to stay in the Premier League and that’s our priority.

“Whatever way we do it doesn’t really matter – whether we do it playing pretty or playing ugly. We want to get wins but when the other team are fighting just as hard it’s not easy.”

Albion beat Watford 3-0 on the opening day but the Hornets had a renaissance after Nigel Pearson took over as manager in December with four League wins out of five, although they since picked up one point from a possible nine.

Murray recognises the work Pearson has done and the threat posed by striker Troy Deeney, who has scored five goals since Pearson’s arrival.

“The way Nigel has come in and turned it around is pretty special to be honest,” said Murray. “I think people believed he would but what’s surprising is that it’s happened quite quickly. But they are still not clear of trouble, so it’s a big game.

“As for Troy, he will always get you goals as long as you play to his strengths. I’m a big fan – he’s been fantastic for Watford.”