Lewis Morgan’s debut for Sunderland was an impressive one, as they overcame Wimbledon 1-0 at the Stadium of Light.
Morgan has signed with the Black Cats until the end of the season on loan. During that period, he’ll be tasked with helping to spark the club’s promotion bid. Yesterday’s win, however, moved them up to to within three points of second place.
It was a former Celt, Aiden McGeady, who nabbed the winning goal – fittingly in the 67th minute given the Hoops connection in the North East yesterday.
But as for Morgan, he put in a lively display down the right. He had the firm beating of full-back Steve Seddon, and was always looking to get on the front-foot.
Manager Jack Ross previously stated that Morgan was aware how difficult it would be to get into this Sunderland side. But, despite that, he still gave the Hoops youngster his first start just two days after signing him temporarily.
After the match, Ross also praised his new wide-man. Speaking to the Sunderland Echo, he acknowledged the hard work Morgan put in during his first start since October.
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“Lewis I thought actually got better as the game wore on, he has not played a lot this season as well. It was brilliant for him to get the opportunity to start the game.
“He can be pleased and supporters will have seen what he will bring.”
A lively start to a spell that needs to kick him on
Morgan simply needs to make his time in England’s North East works. If he doesn’t, then breaking into Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic team is going to be a mightily difficult task.
Gaining promotion would be a bonus, but for Celtic, it will just be a positive if he gets regular game-time and produces strong individual moments.
Morgan looked to do that quickly in his debut yesterday. He fired several shots in on goal whilst consistently taking on his full-back too. There was a bit of swagger back in his game once again, and that’s no surprise given Ross got the best out of him at St Mirren.
For now, it’s just vital Morgan kicks on. Sunderland travel to Oxford United next Saturday, before hosting Blackpool on the Tuesday and Accrington Stanley on the Friday. These are sides that Morgan should be thriving against if he’s to ever make it at Parkhead.
But he certainly made a good impression yesterday regardless.