Alan Irvine was the surprise choice to lead West Bromwich Albion this season, but his term in office did not last long and come December he was sacked. Tony Pulis was appointed in January and took over a team that had lost seven of their previous nine Premier League games. Pulis quickly turned things around and all of a sudden the threat of relegation seemed to disappear. Three defeats on the spin at the end of March and the beginning of April reminded everyone that there was still a lot of work to do. The Baggies responded well however going unbeaten in five games and come the end of the season were a comfortable nine points clear of the drop. The Throstles were a very well organised side under Pulis and huge credit must be given to the former Crystal Palace boss and his players for the turn around. The signing of Darren Fletcher in February was a smart move. Ideye Brown looked a new player under Pulis, while his strike partner Saido Berahino started to live up to his potential also.
