COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Crew announced Friday that midfielder Aidan Morris is transferring to Middlesbrough FC, a team in the English Football League Championship.
The club came to an agreement with Middlesbrough FC for Morris' permanent transfer. The transfer fee was undisclosed.
Morris, 22, joined the Crew Academy in 2017 and has played in 83 MLS regular season matches, with 67 starts. He has scored six goals and had 14 assists.
“I’m just so blessed… My heart is Black & Gold. It's been an amazing ride,” Morris shared Saturday.
The club honored Morris and his contributions to Columbus after the Crew’s 4-0 victory against Sporting Kansas City at Lower.com Field on Saturday.
“Besides from all the MLS Cups, I've created amazing relationships here with amazing people, and that goes a lot more of a way than winning," he said. "I can't thank the Crew fans enough [and] the organization, Issa and (former Crew President and General Manager and Black Knight Football Club President) Tim (Bezbatchenko).”
Morris signed a Homegrown contract with the Crew on Jan. 14, 2020, and made his debut on July 11, 2020.
Despite a knee injury that made him miss the entire 2021 season, he returned to action and played in 27 total league matches in 2022. Following the conclusion of the season, he was honored with the Kirk Urso Heart Award.
The midfielder was named to his first MLS All-Star Game last season.
“Watching Aidan’s growth as a player and person during his time at the Crew has been a true privilege, and we greatly appreciate his dedication to the Club and our city,” said Crew General Manager Issa Tall. “Aidan has always been focused on learning and improving, and he’s an exceptional role model for our Academy players. We are proud of what Aidan accomplished individually and with our Club as he made a significant impact in the Crew’s history. He always aspired to play in Europe and earned the opportunity, and we look forward to him further displaying his form and character as he joins Middlesbrough.
