Tony Mowbray takes heat off James Morrison
ALBION boss Tony Mowbray has told his midfield lynch-pin James Morrison he is wrong to think he has something to prove to former club Middlesbrough.
Morrison stressed yesterday he will be going out on Saturday to show Boro boss Gareth Southgate and the board what they have missed since they agreed to cash in in January 2007.
But just like when he advised Scott Carson and Luke Moore to simply go out and be themselves against Villa, the Albion boss has told his £1.5million bargain he has already more than fulfilled expectations at The Hawthorns.
“He does not have to prove anything,’’ said Mowbray. “I am pretty sure of that from my perspective.
“Sometimes young players find their path blocked to the number of games they want because Middlesbrough can buy players.
“I am just delighted that the opportunity arose for us to go and get a player of James’ quality,” added Mowbray. “I am delighted that he is part of our squad, and let’s hope he can go back to Middlesbrough at the weekend and do well.”
Mowbray clearly believes he got value for money for a player who is now a fully fledged Scottish international.
He added: “I thought we bought a good player when we did and he is the player I knew we had bought.
“Middlesbrough knew what a talented player he was. The fee goes up to just over £2million. Whatever he cost I am delighted that he is here with us. He is well worth the money we paid for him.”
Morrison has already scored two goals – against West Ham and Villa – in four appearances this season.
“He has popped up with a few goals, that has always been part of his game,’’ continued Mowbray. “He is great to work with because he brings that versatility.”
“You can play him wide or through the middle. Scotland manager George Burley likes him and I have spoken to him a few times recently.”
“So James is fine, although he has got to keep working hard.”
