Morris helping Boro fill void left by Hackney exit

[Getty Images] When Hayden Hackney left Middlesbrough for Everton in the summer there might have been some concern that his was a void that boss Kim Hellberg would struggle to fill. But step forward Aidan Morris. Already at the club for a while, of course, but now an absolute focal point of this exciting Middlesbrough team. Amid the madness of Saturday's chaotic and enthralling 4-3 win over Norwich , there was a steady head, a calm and technically astute footballer who made sure his side ticked on to the very end: it was the American midfielder. Morris is clearly hugely appreciated at the Riverside and his performance appeared crucial as those around him flourished as well. Defensively there were blips, but Norwich have dangerous players and were a stern test here. I left Teesside in no doubt that Middlesbrough have added extra dimensions to their game, looking more like promotion contenders than they did when Hellberg arrived last November. Amario Cozier-Duberry, for example, adds a real threat in attack and had a promising league debut. A mention too for Sebastian Berhalter - the actual player brought in to replace Hackney - he looks to be another shrewd acquisition. But there probably isn't a central midfielder better than the all-action Morris in the second tier at the moment. Latest Middlesbrough news, analysis and fan views