The work of the Spaniard in the Black Country has been celebrated by fans and media alike, but it would be fair to comment that Corberan’s duration at the club was not to everyone’s taste.
That’s Entertainment
Carlos Corberan’s duration at the Baggies helm ended after a 2 – 0 victory over Bristol City, marking 8 wins in 23 matches, which has left West Brom 8th and a point adrift from the Play-Off positions at Christmas. His patient build-up play and tippy-tappy style was not always met with gratitude from The Baggies faithful, however, it seems a select portion of the fanbase have a biased view of Corberan’s success at the Midlands club, with those fans wanting to be entertained. Although, with the recent run of mediocre results it has proven difficult to argue with said critics. See the stats for yourself at SportsLoci.
If we are to take into account the fact of the financial situation the club has been in, the 30% pay cut, the post-Steve Bruce blues and the general depression all Baggies fans felt after being yet another victim to a billionaire bleeding a football club… does that put things into perspective for any critics out there? It is a fact the club is in a better position on the pitch and in the books, so that is not up for debate.
Working Wonders
From a coaching perspective, Corberan was able to bring out the best in the Albion players especially Karlan Grant who has proven his worth so far this season with his 6th goal coming against Sheffield United in Chris Brunt’s second game as caretaker manager. Grant, who has been working wonders down the left wing, has been playing in his original position and his energy levels have been through the roof, finding himself in all quarters of the field. He is simply a different player after working with Corberan, while still managing to find the net when positioned in the centre of the attacking line.
One aspect of West Brom’s play post-Corberan was especially seen during the 1-1 draw with the Blades, with less passing across the backline and more urgency getting forward. This was the main criticism I found myself making, as often Johnston, Maja and Fellows would be begging to be played through into the final third only for the pass to be delayed and the ball passed back to goalkeeper, Alex Palmer.
Transitional Figure
Maybe the untimely exit of King Carlos is not so untimely after all? In the grand history of West Bromwich Albion, I believe Corberan will be remembered as an important figure who has helped the club move forward, a transitional figure. With current names being thrown about including John Heitinga, Mark Robbins and Luke Williams it is without a doubt that they will have some serious shoes to fill. But one thing remains, King Carlos is undeniably a Baggies hero and the facts make it more than difficult to argue with… whether you enjoyed the football or not!
