Ex-Premier League striker Clinton Morrison signs for Redditch United

Pic: BBC H&W

FORMER Premier League striker and Republic of Ireland international Clinton Morrison says he has dropped into Non-League with Redditch United to win things.

Morrison, 37, scored more than 150 goals in his 18 years in the League football, as well as nine in 36 internationals appearances.

He was released by League Two side Exeter City at the end of last season and the ex-Birmingham City forward has returned to the West Midlands with Redditch.

New Reds boss Darren Byfield – who replaced Liam McDonald following his move to Hednesford Town – has pulled off a major coup by enticing Morrison to the Valley.

The striker became Byfield’s fourth signing of the week, following the addition of former Kidderminster and Corby Town defender Duane Courtney and the returns of ex-Redditch pair Jamie Spencer and Jordan Jones.

Morrison – who had a brief spell with Long Eaton United in 2014 – has made it clear he is serious about the move to Redditch as he targets some silverware at the twilight of his career.

The Tooting-born forward told BBC WM: “I know Darren well, he’s a personal friend and he’s been phoning me loads over the past two weeks!

“I was telling him there might be other opportunities but with me living in Nottingham, it’s only 45 minutes away. I’ve got two kids who are both in the Nottingham Forest academy so I want to spend more time with them.

“I know what Darren wants to do at this club and he has great enthusiasm for it. People have said mid-table next season would be a success but I won’t settle for that – I want to win things.

“I love football, I always have. I was at Exeter but wasn’t playing that much and I thought if I can bring my experience here to Redditch, it can help the younger lads.

“I had good times at Birmingham and Coventry so I feel like an adopted Brummie anyway! I’m here to help Darren and push this club forward – in a couple of years it could go far.”