West Brom manager Gary Megson says this evening's game at Fulham is the start of a crucial five days in the club's Premiership survival fight.

The Baggies are third from bottom of the top flight and face Fulham, who are just nine points ahead of them, before they entertain West Ham on Sunday.

"We have this game in hand on Wednesday evening and then on Sunday we are playing a team that is near to us in the division," said Megson.

"They are bound to have a big bearing on what is going to happen to us but nothing will be decided one way or the other.

"There will still be a quarter of the season to go. It will not be make or break.

"The only thing we are looking to do is to get three points against Fulham.

Tigana's Fulham future could depend on results

"What happens from there will take care of itself - but we need to start winning games."

Megson's preparations have involved taking his players for a week in Spain.

He added: "The togetherness has got to be there and that sort of time together won't do any harm.

"That, along with getting in some good training, was the reason we went."

Fulham manager Jean Tigana's future at the club is uncertain and defender Andy Melville knows the Fulham players need to be wary about being dragged further into the relegation battle.

"It's a massive game for both clubs. We're not safe and teams could catch us if we're not on our mettle," said Melville.

"We've got big games coming up and West Brom and Sunderland are both six-pointers.

"We know what Gary Megson's sides are like. We lost the battle at their place so hopefully we won't lose the battle tonight."