Edinburgh Monarchs turn to teen spirit Morris

He is replaced by 16-year-old starlet Ashley Morris, who will make his Premier League debut against Somerset Rebels at Armadale tomorrow night.

Morris rides for Dudley Heathens in the National League but also signed for Elite League side Wolverhampton Wolves on his 16th birthday in May.

And Monarchs boss John Campbell believes the youngster has genuine potential.

Said Campbell: "Wolves promoter Chris Van Straaten suggested he was worth taking a look at as a loan signing for a club in the Premier League in 2011. So we have taken a chance to see what he looks like in 2010."

Campbell has monitored his scores for Dudley, who are currently second in the National League.

"Ashley is a typical 16-year-old who wins races impressively, passing people on the way, and also finishes last in races.

"But like so many three-point riders who come into the Premier League you take a chance with them and hope for the best."

Morris commented: "I'm absolutely thrilled that Edinburgh have given me this chance and I hope I can do a job for them, I'm looking forward to the opportunity."

With Monarchs chasing silverware on a few fronts, Morris faces a potential 20-meeting bonanza before the end of the season. Campbell said: "Ashley will also continue to race for Dudley so could be riding three or four times a week and this should help bring out the potential he's got."

Campbell revealed that Bugeja's single-point return at Workington Comets last Saturday, a match Monarchs lost 51-42, convinced him that further surgery was required at the tail-end.

"I'm not going to be critical of Arlo," said Campbell, "because he tried his best for us. But it was clear at the weekend it just wasn't working and we needed to do something.

"Arlo did what we expected him to do, but at certain times he was simply not competitive.

"For instance, at Workington, for him to lose a race against their National League guest Steve Worrall simply should not have happened. It was time to look at other options.

"I'm not suggesting Ashley is the perfect option but he is young enough and has come on quickly enough to make us think he's got something about him."

Meanwhile, Monarchs' washed-out fixture at Somerset last night will be restaged on Wednesday 15 September. Monarchs have also agreed dates for their Knockout Cup semi-final ties against Workington. They will host the first leg on Friday 17 September and travel to Derwent Park for the return 24 hours later.