At the start of the 2020/21 Championship campaign, Watford had no fit true left-backs. When Adam Masina came back from injury, he had no natural understudy. They signed Achraf Lazaar to provide left-back depth, though the club opted to not extend his contract upon promotion. Now, James Morris has come in.
The Hornets added starting competition by acquiring Danny Rose earlier in the transfer window. The club have now further bolstered their left-back department by signing free-agent James Morris.
Watford Acquire James Morris
Watford to Sign Left-Back Following Impressive Trial
According to the Watford Observer, the Hornets have signed the former Southampton defender on a one-year contract with the option for another year afterwards.
Morris joins Watford following a considerably impressive trial period. When Masina went down in the first half of the Club’s friendly against West Bromwich Albion, Morris had to get thrown into the thick of the action on short notice. He likely would have gotten minutes later in the match when other youngsters got subbed on for first-team players – as he did in friendlies against Stevenage and Arsenal – but his bow in front of the supporters came when the opposition’s stronger 11 was on the pitch. His admirable performance got him plaudits from the Watford faithful.
James Morris to Provide Depth and Bolster Youth Ranks
Morris is the Club’s third-choice left-back upon arrival. However, at 19-years-old, he will primarily play with the U23 squad to further develop and make a case as to why he should receive a longer contract.
However, with AFCON taking place in the heart of the 2021/22 season, first-team chances for Morris are a possibility. With Masina potentially representing Morocco in the international tournament, Morris will temporarily be the second-choice left-back.
If Masina or Rose get injured at any point in the season, he is going to need to be ready to be thrown into the thick of the action if an injury hits the other left-back. He will most likely play a minimal role for the senior squad this season. But, that role may be maximized on short notice.
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