Morton left Liverpool to join Lyon in the summer transfer window and was immediately thrust into the starting XI as the Ligue 1 campaign began. After completing the first three games, he was given his first major learning experience in France during the 3-1 defeat at Rennes, receiving a red card for a challenge from behind on Kader Meite.
The 22-year-old admits it was not his brightest moment, telling Le Progres: “Sending off or not, it’s difficult to say, but I should have been more intelligent in my tackle. I have to get used to this league, understand the referees and know what you can and can’t do. I made, as they say, a very English tackle.”
The English prodigy has been surprised by the speed and physicality of the game in the French top-flight, saying it matches that of the English league.
“In the Champions League, the game is more technical and more tactical, slower,” he added. “In the Championship where I played most often, it’s more physical, and in the Premier League, it’s both tactical and physical – a bit like the French league, which is rich in physically strong, fast, and very intelligent players. It’s a high-level championship, the pace is as fast as in the Premier League.”n
After making 14 senior appearances with Liverpool and going on loan at Blackburn Rovers and Hull City, Morton decided to seek regular first-team football abroad. He described his move to Lyon as a positive and necessary step, stating: “I didn’t have so many opportunities in the Premier League. Coming here was a good decision, I wouldn’t change anything today. I love being here, I love the fans, the players at the club. I’m living in a really exciting time.”
Beyond club football, Morton remains focused on making his mark for England. He stated: “I’d like to play for my country first, before thinking about the World Cup. A World Cup is an important step in a player’s career, and it would be incredible. I hope to have the opportunity, if I continue to play, play well, and enjoy myself here.”
With regular starts at Lyon, Morton aims to combine consistent performances with his natural adaptability to catch the attention of England’s national team selectors.
Morton has featured in four Ligue 1 matches so far, playing 345 minutes, and he is now fully focused on contributing to Lyon’s domestic and European campaigns.
