David Morgan says it’s a ‘joy to play’ in front of the Accrington Stanley fans – and hopes there is plenty to cheer about during Saturday’s derby clash with Wigan Athletic.
The Latics, managed by ex-Red Leam Richardson, are second in the table, having lost just once in their six league encounters so far and they have one of the best defensive records in the league.
Stanley are seventh in the table and have won three out of three in League One at home this season.
Morgan, 27, signed for the Reds from Southport in February and has had to be patient for his chance.
But, in the absence of skipper Seamus Conneely through injury and after not starting the first game, he has seized the defensive midfielder’s role and played ever since.
“In football, when you come to a club, you have to take to the opportunities when they come around. It might be immediately or you might have to bide your time,” said Morgan.
“It was good for me, when the opportunity came, I was ready.
“Physicality was the main step up. I was part-time and working when I came last year, I wasn’t as fit as I needed to be even though I thought I was.
“Doing a pre-season, I realised I could go to another level with my fitness and now I can get around the pitch a bit more which is beneficial to me and the team.
“When I signed, the gaffer said to me: 'Watch clips of Seamus as he does that role so well.' I have played different roles since I have been here but Seamus is a top pro and I enjoy learning from him.
“You might not catch the eye every week but you are doing the job and that’s the main thing.”
After playing table-topping Sunderland last weekend, and narrowly losing, Morgan knows this is another big game for the Reds against one of the promotion-contenders.
“If you look at all teams which end up in the promotion places, home form is massive. We need to make our ground a fortress, we have started well, but we have got to maintain that.
“We want to do better away from home but I don’t think the performances have been an issue, just picking up the points we have deserved.
“Saturday is another big game. From where Wigan were 18 months or so ago, the turnaround has been brilliant, I wish them well. They will be up there but we want to be as well. We have got to make sure we are up for the game.
“The fans have been fantastic. I had never played in front of more than 1,000 people when I came here!
“Last year having no fans, it was quiet. Pre-season, the Preston game, I liked it and the start of season, it’s been a joy to play in front of them.”
The full pre-match interview video with David Morgan is available to watch on the club's official YouTube channel, CLICK HERE to find out more!