ONE of the region's latest football talents has thanked a health club for the fitness boost that propelled him into the Middlesbrough first team.

Darlington-born James Morrison took advantage of Bannatyne Fitness Club's offer to use its facilities during the close season as he aimed for Premiership glory.

The 18-year-old has gone on to make an immediate impact on North-East football.

He made it into the first team last month, scoring the club's first away goal in Europe, against Banik Ostrava.

Three days later, he played a starring role as Middlesbrough held Manchester United to a draw.

He said: "The past couple of months have been amazing for me and, like anything in football, a lot of it is down to preparation.

"I really wanted to work on my fitness during the summer as there is a big gap between being part of a successful youth team and breaking into the first team squad."

He presented the health club's general manager, Paul Pearson, with a signed shirt to show his apprecation.

Mr Pearson said: "James is an exceptional young talent and it is important people like him are given the opportunity to show their skills at the highest level."