Kieran Gibbs: West Brom looking up and not down

The Baggies sit just two points above the bottom three after eight games in the league without a win.

But Gibbs, who is yet to taste victory in Albion colours, says Tony Pulis’s team haven’t got as many points as their performances deserved.

And the former Arsenal left-back, who has looked impressive since his £5m switch in the summer, is confident results will change soon.

“I haven’t sensed that,” he said, when asked if people were starting to fear the bottom three. “I think the boys are getting on with it and waiting for the luck to turn and the chances to go our way.

“We need to close off a few games, like Watford and Leicester. When you go in front it’s important to remain focused for 90 minutes.

“I don’t think the results reflect the performances in some games but in some we haven’t been good enough individually.

“The effort is there with the team and everyone is relaxed and enjoying being competitive in training in the week and giving 100 per cent in the games.”

Albion were beaten 3-2 by Manchester City at the weekend and despite defeat, it was an improved performance from the Baggies.

And Gibbs assured supporters that the dressing room remained completely behind Pulis.

“Definitely,” he said. “It’s still really early in the season and there’s no reason for anyone to be behaving like that (not pulling in the right direction). Results haven’t gone our way in the last few weeks.”

Saturday’s game was not as close as the scoreline suggested, and even though Albion had chances, City dominated most of the match. Gibbs reckons it is the best team he’s ever faced in the Premier League.

“I think so,” he said. “Collectively they are strong everywhere. It’s tough to play against. The way they move the ball, the way the players move position. It’s hard to keep track.

“It goes to show why no-one has got near them so far because they are a very strong side. They kept us pinned back for quite a while.

“They are technically very good. They are clever with the way they position themselves and quick over a short space and they make it very difficult to get the ball and, when you do, have a chance of getting out. They rely heavily on that.

“Sometimes when you get momentum going and get in behind them you can see a few vulnerabilities but they work so hard to avoid getting into that situation that it’s hard to get an opportunity to get them on the back foot.

“There were some moments which could have changed the game but that’s the way it goes. I’m sure if we keep fighting those chances will come for us.”