MORGAN’S AIMING TO HONOUR REGIS
Arsenal v Wolves
MORGAN GIBBS-WHITE wants to succeed – to prove Cyrille Regis right.
Wolves’ teen sensation, a World Cup winner with England Under-17s last season, has made the breakthrough into Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans.
He is one of only six 18-year-olds to have played in the Premier League this season.
However, Gibbs-White (below) has his eyes on going further still to live up to the expectations his late mentor – who passed away in January from a heart attack – set for him.
The midfielder said: “Cyrille was my agent – but he was more than that.
“He was a friend, like a family member. He helped me out when I couldn’t turn to anyone else to ask them for advice.
“Cyrille was an inspiration. He was a great player. Also the things he went through – the way he dealt with racism, for example.
“He inspired and improved me – he was a great example.
“I turned to him and he always gave me the best advice. It was gut-wrenching to see what happened to him and the way he left us.
“I couldn’t thank him enough for what he did for me. I’m doing what I’m doing now for him – and everyone else who has helped me.”
Gibbs-White was praised by Match of the Day pundit Danny Murphy after an eye-catching cameo against Spurs last week.
He said: “When I came on in the second half the game was a bit dead. I added something – possibly a bit of spirit. Unfortunately it wasn’t our day.
“I did listen to what was said on Match of the Day but it’s important that I stay humble. If I let it go to my head, it’s not going to help.
“I try not to let any attention bother me and try to get on with my football.” Wolves have not tasted success over Arsenal on their own patch for 39 years, since winning 3-2 at Highbury.
And with the Gunners coming off the back of a long winning streak, Gibbs-White knows how tough the task is.
He said: “The manager has a confidence and belief in the way we play. The mood in the camp is still high.
“We will go out believing we can get a performance and a victory.”
NEIL MOXLEY