Pulis returns to The Hawthorns today for the first time since he was sacked in November 2017.

He could receive a mixed reception from supporters after dividing opinion during his three-year reign, but Moore has urged Baggies to support their club instead of getting distracted.

When asked if Pulis might receive a bit of stick on his return, Moore said: "I hope not. And I hope the Albion fans have got more important things to worry about, which is supporting us.

"I'm asking the fans to not get sidetracked, because we need them.

"As an individual I've got admiration for Tony. He knows that. I worked with him before he came to this club.

"He gave us stability and structure at a difficult time, stepped in and steadied the ship.

"He gave us a solid platform and that can never be cast to one side. The club needed Tony. I enjoyed my time working with him and learned a lot.

"Few managers have amassed the number of games he has. His knowledge of the game is of the highest level."

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When Pulis arrived at The Hawthorns at the start of 2015, Albion looked set for relegation.

But the Welshman turned their fortunes around before guiding the club to three mid-table finishes.

However, crowds dwindled at the same time, with many choosing to stay away during his tenure, and after a dismal run at the start of last season, he was sacked.

"Remember what he did for us at the time when he came in," said Moore. "If the fans can cast their minds and thoughts back to that time, we needed him at that time and he delivered.

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"He set the club back on solid foundations. What I am asking the fans to do, I need their support. I'll be disappointed if they don't give the team their support.

"Keep the unity going in the place, it's wonderful when I see the ground and stadium full. It makes me feel proud.

"The supporters know me and my rallying call to them is get behind us, you've been magnificent this season.

"The team respond when they get behind them. Sing your hearts out again and hopefully we can continue the high level of performance."