Former Premier League ace Clinton Morrison has plenty left to offer Mickleover Sports

Pic: offthebenchmedia

CLINTON MORRISON is taking his first steps into management – but still hasn’t got it in him to hang up his boots!

The veteran former Crystal Palace striker, 38, has been appointed to Mickleover Sports’ backroom team.

A player for the Evo-Stik NPL Premier club last season, he admits he wasn’t as fit as he needed to be to compete in Step 3.

He has promised to put that right but has an extra focus now as Sports look to mount a promotion challenge.

The ex-Republic of Ireland forward was invited to join player-manager John McGrath’s team and he will help coach the club’s strikers.

“It’s going to be a big challenge for me and I’m really happy to have been given such a good opportunity,” said Morrison.

“I’m hoping to utilise my experience and be as much help to the management team as I possibly can.

“We’re looking to have a good season and try to push on as far up the table as we can.”

Shape

Morrison, who also played for Exeter City, Coventry City, Birmingham and Sheffield Wednesday, may be able to help on the pitch as much as off it.

The TV pundit will still register as a player and he hasn’t given up hope of playing a big part for the Sports.

“I enjoyed playing last season, but I think I needed to be fitter,” conceded Morrison. “The standard is really high so I’ll need to be in better shape and hopefully I will be.”

While there are options at one end of the pitch, there is also security at the other. Goalkeeper Nick Draper is staying at the club after impressing last season between the posts.

Manager McGrath said: “I’m really pleased that Nick has agreed terms and has re-signed for next season. He had an excellent time with us after joining from Worcester City just after Christmas.

“I trust him 100 per cent and I believe he has a bright future ahead of him.”