Jody Batty About David

Last updated : 29 July 2003 By Kevin Markey
The former Chelsea player made his debut in a 4-2 defeat at Burnley last Sunday alongside Batty in the centre of the Leeds midfield.

The pair produced some typically ferocious challenges with one late tackle by Morris prompting a 20-man brawl just before half-time.

Morris is relishing the chance to link up with Batty this season and said: "It is a pleasure to play with someone like David. I looked up to him when I was younger and he is someone I can learn from.

"The more I play with him, the more it will help my game. I remember a couple of games with Newcastle when I was at Chelsea and he was some opponent.

"I would much rather have him in my team than against us. I had not seen him for a while because he didn't play much last season but in training he has been quality."

Morris admits to being slightly behind his new team-mates in terms of fitness after only sealing his move to Elland Road last week.

But he has vowed to be fighting fit for Leeds' opening clash with Newcastle on 17th August.

He added: "I had only trained for two days before the Burnley game so to play 90 minutes was great. I am a little bit behind the others at the moment so I am trying to get my fitness up.

"I was even stiff before I went out on the pitch but that is part and parcel of pre-season.

"Losing to Burnley was not an ideal start for me but hopefully we can build on that. Everyone here is optimistic."