Lee Johnson explains transfer decision on Sunderland defender set to depart

The former Everton youngster was signed by Phil Parkinson last summer to add depth to his options at centre-back, but signed a short-term deal that expires this month.

The 21-year-old made a positive first impression, scoring on his debut in a 8-1 Papa John's Trophy win over Aston Villa U21s. A serious hamstring injury checked his progress and the arrival of Lee Johnson has seen Sunderland switch to a system that only utilises two centre-backs.

Johnson has been impressed with what he has seen of the youngster, but competition for places means that he cannot guarantee him regular minutes.

As such, the Black Cats Head Coach is happy to let him pursue other opportunities.

"We've had a good chat with Morgan," Johnson said.

"I think he'll be an excellent signing for someone but I just feel that with the strength in depth we've got in that position, he's at a time in his career where he needs to go and be a big fish in a small pond. He needs to find that identity and he will because he's a good player and an unbelievable lad, as well.

"From what I've seen so far I would recommend him [to another club] but for the short-term fix he requires, which is a lot of games, after some good conversations with him and his representatives, we decided the best thing was to let him crack on with his career."

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