Bolton youngster reflects on impressive debut at the weekend | OneFootball

Young defender Aaron Morley says he “couldn’t have asked for a better debut” after his first appearance for Bolton Wanderers in a 2-0 victory over Ipswich.

The 21-year-old joined the League One side from Rochdale during the week and went straight into the starting line-up for his new club.

Morley had his part to play as Wanderers’ first goal from Kieran Lee was scored from the rebound after Morley’s initial shot was saved. The three points were then secured when Dapo Afolayan took advantage of a poor backpass from Ipswich’s George Edmundson.

Reflecting on his debut, Aaron Morley told Manchester Evening News: “I couldn’t have asked for a better debut, a clean sheet and three points.

“It was a great follow up, great finish because the ‘keeper made it difficult. I am happy I had a part to play.”

The youngster, who started out at Manchester City, was at Bolton for a short time when he was fourteen. Speaking about the decision to return to the club, he said: “I found out about Bolton at the start of December and it was a no-brainer when they put the bid in for me to come to the club. It’s massive and I know what they want and where they are going.

“It was massive and I was here for a year when I was 14 and I loved my time here but it didn’t work out. Hopefully this time I can keep my shirt, keep my position and kick on.”

At only 21-years-old, Morley has an impressive number of EFL appearances under his belt with more than 120 appearances so far. But the midfielder has set his sights on 200 appearances and believes Bolton is the place he can achieve it. He said: “I have played in front of them [the fans] before but in the opposing team, so to hear them signing my name was amazing, it was class.

“I just want to get as many goals and assists as I can here – I think I am on 120 games now so I definitely want to get past 200 with Bolton.”

The Verdict:

Morley has returned to Bolton and had a great start at the club showcasing his ability in Saturday’s victory. He will have been very happy with his place in the starting line-up too.

It’s clear to see the midfielder has a great attitude and is excited to push on with Wanderers and make progress as a player. At such a young age, there is still plenty of time for him to develop.

Wanderers currently sit 17th in League One despite their victory over Ipswich. However after being part of his side’s first victory in January, I’m sure Morley will be raring to go and help the team go onto more.