Morrison chooses Scotland
31 Jul 2007 - 10:40:20
Middlesbrough midfielder James Morrison has pledged his international future to Scotland, as he feels his opportunities with England will be limited.
The 21-year-old Boro rising star has grandparents from north of the border and has been given hope of a call-up in the near future by Scotland coach Alex McLeish.
"After having a chat with Alex McLeish I have chosen to play for Scotland," Morrison confirmed.
"I was born in England and I believe I could do a job for them, but it was a question of how long I wanted to wait.
"But I've got the chance to help Scotland now and I'm really looking forward to pulling on the shirt."
Meanwhile, Boro remain hopeful that injury-jinxed defender Jonathan Woodgate will be ready for the start of the new season, following knee surgery.
A Boro spokesman stated: "Jonathan is still in the final stages of his recovery programme and we will not rule him out at this stage."
Manager Gareth Southgate had earlier said: "Woody is obviously a doubt for the start of the season. He's not into full training yet and with him we've got to be a bit patient."