Nolan hails renewed Morrison

West Ham captain Kevin Nolan has hailed Ravel Morrison’s fresh approach after the midfielder scored twice against Sporting Lisbon on Monday.

The 20-year-old, who joined from Manchester United in 2012, has been involved in some off-field incidents that had cast doubts over his professionalism.

But after spending a productive spell on loan at Birmingham City last term, Nolan is confident that Morrison is ready to realise his potential.

“The lad has got ability,” he told the club’s official website. “It was all the off-field stuff and his mental attitude to the game and I think he has come back (with a renewed approach).

“Speaking to Lee Clark (Birmingham manager) when I’ve had the chance to, he said he really worked hard with him and towards the end of last season he really had him on board and that’s what you have got to have with Rav.

“Hopefully now he’s seen the benefit of being around us all the time and going out on loan and seeing what it’s all about.

“I’m going to help him as much as I can this season, talking to him on the pitch and off the pitch. If he can get it all right, he’ll be a top player for years to come.”

Morrison’s double followed Nolan’s equaliser in the 3-2 victory over Sporting in Portugal, where West Ham will take on Braga on Tuesday.