Worthington philosophical over striker snub

Last updated : 01 September 2005 By Rick Lamb
The Northern Irishman assured Canaries fans that his southern counterpart had chosen to rejoin the Eagles because of matters of the heart, not the head.

Morrison signed a three-year contract at Selhurst Park, disappointing Norwich and the third side relegated from the Premiership last term, Harry Redknapp's Southampton. The terms of the Palace deal are believed to be broadly similar to Norwich's offer, but the 26-year-old chose to return to his first club.

"The Football Club in this situation has been first class," said Worthington. "The deal between us and Crystal Palace had nothing in it. It was a family factor, and maybe going back to his home territory had something to do with it."

Missing out on Morrison leaves the Yellows short of options for the weekend clash with Leeds United. Peter Thorne, who signed in the summer from Cardiff City, is to see a specialist today about a knee injury, with an outside chance that the striker will require surgery. With Dean Ashton and Darren Huckerby already struggling, the possibility is that Gary Doherty will be the one to partner Leon McKenzie in attack. Doherty has played there for City before, scoring at St James Park a year ago, as well as for the Republic of Ireland.

The treatment tables at Colney are straining under the weight of casualties in the early weeks of the season. Andy Hughes picked up and injury at Southampton while Adam Drury is already ruled out with fellow full back Matthieu Louis-Jean. Canadian international Jim Brennan will continue to stake his claim for a regular starting place in midfield, having shown some good form at St Marys and the National Hockey Stadium.