But the midfielder has struggled to truly establish himself at Stamford Bridge, more often seen on the substitutes' bench.

His progress has been stifled by a host of different European internationals in Chelsea's midfield.

Last season, it looked like he was about to leave Stamford Bridge.

But he has so far stayed, despite reported interest from Southampton.

The 23-year-old is very much in the mould of former Chelsea favourite Dennis Wise, a solid and industrious player.

But like Wise, his career has been blighted by some negative publicity.

Last year, he was fined by the club after a drinking binge in a hotel which was full of American tourists just a day after the September 11 terrorist attacks.

On the field, he was a product of the FA School of Excellence, and made his debut against Middlesbrough in 1996.

He went on to be the club's young player of the year that season, but in the last campaign, Morris made just 10 appearances for the first team.

In his time at Stamford Bridge, he has earned FA Cup and Charity Shield winners' medals.

He also has three caps as an England Under-21 international.