MORSY FITS THE BORO BILL

S A M

Morsy’s captaincy experience was a major reason Middlesbrough brought him to the club – and coach Ronnie Jepson can’t wait to hear the midfielder moaning! Morsy joined Boro on a three-year contract from Wigan a week ago and made his debut in the midweek Carabao Cup loss to Barnsley – playing 60 minutes in the 2-0 defeat.

The 29-year-old earned successive League Two promotions with Port Vale and Chesterfield early in his career before helping Wigan go up from League One in 2017-18 and winning the Latics’ Player of the Year award in the Championship last season.

He was skipper for both the Spireites and the Latics, with Jepson excited by the Egypt international’s traits.

“We knew exactly what he’d bring, he does what it says on the tin,” said the coach. “It was great for him to get 60 minutes against Barnsley. He’ll improve.

“Every club he’s been at he’s been captain, so that tells you everything. We know Sam, we’ve seen him for years, he fits the bill and will improve the squad.

“You need a presence in the Championship. We’ve got leaders who show in their actions and not just the voice, so we have both.

“Sam Morsy will give us extra edge with how he gets about it, he’ll be moaning at everybody!”

Morsy has vowed to use his leadership experience to help club captain Britt Assombalonga but was also keen to stress what he will bring on the pitch.

“I like to get on the ball, try to get the attacking players on it, and defensively I’m probably known best for breaking up play as well,” explained Morsy.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for me, hopefully I can settle in quickly and hit the ground running.”