Paul Barber has praised Albion fans – and contrasted their “sheer passion” with other, more choreographed, supporters.

The chief executive and deputy chairman wrote in his programme notes for the Southampton game about how he was impressed by the backing the home team received as they beat Manchester City.

He said it was not a first and hopes it is by no means a last.

Barber wrote: “The atmosphere you created that evening against the champions was simply fantastic – and it came from all areas of the stadium.

“It was generated without drums, with nobody dressed in black using loudhailers, no organised singing sections, no song sheets and no goal music.

“It came as a result of your sheer passion to get behind the team which was heard loud and clear by millions of TV viewers all over the world, drawing admiring comments from media outlets in many countries.

“Critically, your great support came when we were having a tough time and were behind in the game – not just when we were playing at our best or winning.

“You undoubtedly lifted the players and you helped make a real difference to the outcome of the match.

“We’ve seen and heard such an atmosphere generated numerous times at the Amex now and it’s simply fantastic.

“Thank you, let’s replicate it again tonight.”