Tyler Morton says he took the right step by leaving Liverpool for Lyon in the summer window.
Le Progres interviewed the 22-year-old, and he talked about the difference between Ligue 1 and the Premier League, and what convinced him to leave Liverpool.
The defensive midfielder graduated from the Reds’ academy in 2021 and his failure to find a regular spot under Jurgen Klopp resulted in loan spells to Blackburn Rovers and Hull City between 2022 and 2024.
Arne Slot was manager when he returned to Anfield, and his situation didn’t improve as his game time was restricted in their title winning campaign last season.
The newspaper points out to Morton that more English players are moving to Ligue 1 and then ask whether it’s too difficult to make it in the Premier League. When responding to that, the player explained he’s happy with his decision to leave the Reds for Lyon.
“It’s difficult, yes, because of the increasing number of good players coming from abroad, especially from France,” he said.
“Succeeding at your club is really not easy. If you have the opportunity, and you’re young like me, and you really want to play football, I think that to have more chances, you absolutely have to go abroad.”
“The quality and intensity of French football are comparable to those of the Premier League, from what I’ve already seen. To make yourself known, to develop, you have to play in different leagues, to test yourself.”
“Last summer, I didn’t have so many opportunities in the Premier League. Coming here was a good decision, I wouldn’t change anything today. I love being here, I love the fans, the players at the club. I’m living in a really exciting time.”
The former Liverpool man has cemented his place at his new club, playing 345 minutes from four games so far. He wants to continue to be a regular at Lyon in order to make his debut for England.
When asked if he’s thinking about the next World Cup, Morton explained: “I’m a very ambitious person. I’d like to play for my country first, before thinking about the World Cup. A World Cup is an important step in a player’s career, and it would be incredible. I hope to have the opportunity, if I continue to play, play well, and enjoy myself here.”
