West Bromwich Albion boss Alan Irvine admits last season's struggles hit the club hard.
The Scot takes charge of his first-ever top flight game on Saturday when Sunderland visit the Hawthorns.
"I understand how difficult it was for the fans but I know from speaking to everyone here - the players, staff, the Board, the chairman- how difficult it was for them too," Irvine told the Birmingham Mail.
"Clearly we're hoping for something better this season.
"It's clear last season hurt the players.
"A lot of the time I hear people say that players don't care but they do.
"Last season scarred a lot of people but the players have shown me they are ready to move on.
"It can happen to teams - where you find yourself in a position where you cannot find a way to win. That can be very difficult to get out of. Likewise you can get into a run where you can win every week. That's what we're looking for.
"A good start would certainly help because people will be nervous so it would be helpful to get some decent results."
