Source: Bournemouth_Echo
Cherries: Morris says stability is key for next season
FORMER Cherries skipper Mark Morris has underlined the vital effect off-field stability can have on the club's players.[LNB] Centre-half Morris was an important figure for Cherries from 1991-96, playing more than 200 games in a popular spell.[LNB] The ex-captain recalled how, during his time there, financial issues hovered over Dean Court, something that continues to prove problematic for Cherries and many other outfits in the lower divisions.[LNB] But as chairman Eddie Mitchell helped steady the ship at boardroom level last term, manager Eddie Howe guided Cherries to an unlikely promotion from League Two.[LNB] And Morris, 47, believes solid foundations in the corridors of power are massively important.[LNB] He told the Echo: There's been a money-situation cloud over the football club ever since I was a player and maybe even before that. It doesn't help.[LNB] Stability is the main thing. I don't think they've got to pull up any trees next season.[LNB] For me, they've just got to have a good season and a bit of stability inside the football club for two or three years and, hopefully, build up their financial situation. Then they can maybe look to push on again.[LNB] It's only a short time ago the club was on the precipice of going out of the league, so I think it's got to be a situation where it's just slowly but surely.[LNB] I had great times down there and I watch their results all the time. I normally get down there about seven or eight times a year, but unfortunately last season I just didn't have time because I was busy with my business.[LNB] But I hope they push on and I'm pleased for all concerned.[LNB] Signed by Harry Redknapp in July 1991, Morris went on to become player of the season in 1992-93 and he scored eight goals in 194 league games.[LNB] The former Wimbledon star, who still lives locally, played in League One's equivalent throughout his time with Cherries.[LNB] And looking ahead to next season in that division, Morris added: I think what it's all about is stability for the |football club for a few years and then to maybe go on to the next stage.[LNB] I think they will do quite well next year. I don't think they'll struggle. They've got some good players.[LNB] I think the most important thing is the players keep improving Eddie Howe has done a good job and the club gets itself on a sound footing for the future.[LNB]
