The report says Landon Donovan has followed Morris’s progress closely and called the season “fantastic”, rating it at least an “A”. Howard also backed that assessment, pointing to the consistency required to remain fit, selected and effective across a demanding campaign.
For Morris, the endorsement carries weight. Donovan and Howard understand the pressure surrounding the USMNT, but their comments underline a wider point: international selection is not always a complete reflection of a player’s club value.
Morris reportedly became a regular in a Middlesbrough side that reached the Championship play-off final. The report credits him with 45 appearances and says he played every minute of the club’s play-off campaign.
That availability has been central to his reputation. In a league defined by a crowded schedule and physical battles, a midfielder who can deliver week after week becomes a manager’s foundation. Morris appears to have offered precisely that, while also growing more comfortable in possession.
Kim Hellberg described him as “brilliant”, while also praising his attitude, character and willingness to learn. The head coach reportedly sees Morris as an important figure in a team built to play with confidence and control.
Morris joined Middlesbrough from Columbus Crew in 2024 and is reportedly under contract until 2028, giving the club a strong platform to build around him. The next challenge is turning this influential Championship season into another promotion push.
For Morris, the bigger storyline will be whether continued club excellence forces his way back into the United States conversation before the next major international selection.