Graham Potter admits the current period is the toughest of his managerial career, but he does not believe the challenges he faces are a bad thing.
The head coach was reflecting on 2020 and looked ahead to the first match of the new year against Wolves on Saturday.
Potter led Albion to a record Premier League points tally of 41 last season after implementing a new playing style and bringing down the average age of the team by introducing younger players.
However, he accepts criticism will come his way as Albion start 2021 in 17th place.
He said, “If you don't win football matches it's harder to convince people that you're on the right path, I can understand that.
“We took over a team that finished with 36 points and we got them to 41 in the first season. We changed the playing style and added some younger players. But you want to keep improving and results as it stands have not improved, so you can understand the criticism.
“We have got ambition, We have gone into every game this season believing that we can win, but we haven't. At the same time if you're not lucky, you can find yourself in our situation.
MA+ members & STH only - Log-in required
Log-in required
“The way the game is and the media is you can be described as being in a relegation battle after ten games, when you've still got 28 to play.
“That's just life and football at the highest level and I accept that. Just because it's the most challenging time of my career, it doesn't mean it's a bad thing, I know I am really fortunate to have this opportunity to find out about myself and come through a tough period.”
Potter is grateful for the support of Albion fans he meets around the city who understand that the club's aim of becoming a top-ten club in the Premier League is a long-term objective.
“I would like to say thank you to the ones that have supported me, because there's quite a few out there that have throughout a difficult year. They understand what's happening and where we're trying to go.
“I want to promise them that we will be fighting every day to improve the team. It's been a tough year and I understand that not everyone is happy but the majority of the ones I have met have been amazing.”