Michael Morrison celebrates scoring for Charlton

LOCAL lad Michael Morrison has put moving back to Suffolk as one of the main reasons behind the fantastic form that has helped him lead Charlton Athletic back into the Championship.

The Haverhill-born centre-back is set to play his 50th match of the season for the champions this weekend having already been named in the League One team of the season.

And Morrison is already eyeing his first ever appearance at Portman Road – having been mocked by his mates who have played at the home of Ipswich Town in non-league cup finals.

The 24-year-old said: “I have been on the bench twice for Leicester at Portman Road but never got out on the pitch.

“Given where I live, it will be a game I look forward to – especially as some of my mates have played there in the past and have given me stick.

“This year has been my best as a professional and now I want to test myself in the Championship again. As a club, we are excited by the challenge.

“We will be looking to carry on our momentum and do well next season.”

Unable to break through at Leicester, Morrison endured a difficult spell at Sheffield Wednesday before moving to Charlton last summer.

While praising the impact of Addicks boss Chris Powell, someone he actually played alongside at Leicester, Morrison admits the move had other advantages which have helped his game.

The defender, who is chairman and sponsor of his local Sunday League side, explained: “Going to Charlton meant I could move back to Haverhill. I am quite a homely person and I think it has helped my game being closer to home.”