Feet on ground for flier

THE Kangaroos’ Michael Morgan has been starring in his favourite position at five-eighth, but dismissed suggestions he has secured his place there for the long term.

With Australia taking on England in tomorrow night’s World Cup final, Morgan told reporters that victory would assist his chances of holding on to the No.6 jersey but consistency was the key.

The 25-year-old North Queensland Cowboy has played four games for the Kangaroos in the No.6, setting up four tries, scoring two of his own and making four line breaks.

With Cowboys teammate Johnathan Thurston having retired from representative football, Morgan has been a revelation for the Kangaroos in the playmaking role but is not taking anything for granted.

“It (a World Cup victory) may help, but it always depends on how you’re playing the following year as well,” Morgan told reporters.

“I think there’s only one Test match next year so it’ll be open again for anyone by then.

“Look I’m just glad that I’m here and that I’ve had the opportunity to play in the World Cup, and that I’ve had the opportunity to start as well. What comes after that, I’m not too sure. Hopefully I’m still there but it’s a long way away.”

Ironically, it is Morgan’s versatility that may represent the biggest threat to him staying in the position.

He can play at fullback, in the centres, in the halves or even in the second row, providing Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga with plenty of options if he has gaps to fill.

Morgan, however, said he felt most comfortable at five-eighth.

“I’ve probably had the most success playing there (at five-eighth),” he said.

“I did enjoy my year at fullback the other year and I enjoyed playing centre this year in Origin. I do enjoy it, but I’m probably clearer and more comfortable in the No.6.”

Tomorrow night’s game will be the first time Morgan has started in the final of an international tournament.