Middlesbrough signing Ravel Morrison has been on the receiving end of a glowing reference from former West Ham United teammate, Kevin Nolan.  

Jonathan Woodgate moved late in the January transfer window to sign Morrison from Sheffield United, who the playmaker had endured a tough spell with after signing terms with the Premier League high-flyers.

And, given Morrison’s numerous clubs over the years, there might’ve been a few red-flags sent Boro’s way on the back of that.

However, Nolan, who crossed paths with Morrison at West Ham during his spell with the club between 2012-2015, has had high praise for the 27-year-old.

"My god, what a magician with the ball," he told Joe.co.uk, as quoted by TeessideLive.

"His showboating...he just used to tell you he was going to meg you then run away with this stupid laugh.

"I'd get more angry and he'd do it again because I'd go charging in. He was just that type of cheeky kid, you know, a cheeky-chappy.

"He's a really talented kid and if you know him as a lad you really want him to do well and achieve.

"He is a nice lad and you want him to do well, he's just made some stupid and ridiculous decisions (in the past)."

Morrison scored five goals in 24 appearances for the Hammers, but a host of clubs separate him from Boro.

His latest spell in the Premier League with Sheffield United has brought only one substitute appearance, with Morrison making a further three appearances in the domestic cup competitions.

He now links up with Woodgate, who has Boro 18th in the Championship after 30 fixtures.

The Verdict

We know all about Morrison’s talent and his spell at West Ham was particularly impressive, with a goal at White Hart Lane really standing out.

However, as we know about that talent, we also know that he’s struggled to settle with a few clubs and there’s an element of risk with this move to Boro.

If Woodgate can get it right, this could be a masterstroke, but, admittedly, there’s serious risk with it.

All eyes on the Boro move, then.

Thoughts? Let us know!