Ravel in at DC to join Rooney

RAVEL Morrison has followed Wayne Rooney to the United States following his departure from Derby County.

The Jamaica international was one of a host of players who were out of contract with the Rams this summer and it was recently confirmed that he would be leaving the club. Now, the 29-year-old has signed for MLS side DC United, who Rooney has just taken charge of after he resigned as Derby boss.

The much-travelled midfielder arrives on a free transfer “using targeted allocation money (TAM) pending receipt of his P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC)”.

The former Manchester United man has agreed a deal until 2023, with an option in 2024.

“Wayne worked closely with Ravel during his time as manager of Derby County,” said DC United president of soccer operations Dave Kasper.

“Ravel is an incredible talent and his ability to create and score goals is impressive. He has played at the highest levels during his career and his vision, creativity and ability on the ball will be a huge asset for us.”

The club’s general manager, Lucy Rushton, added: “Ravel is a dynamic and exciting player who has experience performing at the elite levels in Europe and Mexico.

“He is a top-class midfielder with excellent technical ability and positional versatility.

His game intelligence and all-round attacking ability allow him to fit perfectly in the system and style that Wayne wants to play. We look forward to integrating him with the roster and having him contribute on the field as soon as possible.”

Morrison joined Derby last summer following his release by Dutch side ADO Den Haag. He made 38 appearances and scored five goals during the 2021-22 campaign.

He posted a farewell message on social media at the start of this month, saying: “Thank you @dcfcofficial all the players, staff and fans for making me feel at home, was a season full of ups and down, but was a real honour to be part of such a wonderful club. I wish everyone at the club success moving forward.”