Cambridge United is bidding an emotional farewell to club captain Michael Morrison as he prepares to leave the U's after an incredible 21-year journey with the club. The 38-year-old defender, who started his career in Cambridge's academy and made his debut as a 17-year-old back in 2005 when the club was in the fifth tier, has been a cornerstone of the team's recent success.

Morrison's career has been nothing short of remarkable. After making 115 appearances in his first spell with Cambridge, he moved to Leicester City, where he helped secure promotion from League One in 2008-09. A stint at Sheffield Wednesday followed before a three-and-a-half-year run at Charlton Athletic, where he again tasted promotion success in 2011-12. His journey also took him through Birmingham City, Reading, and Portsmouth before he made a triumphant return to Cambridge in January 2023.

This season, despite relegation to League Two last year, Morrison played 17 times as the U's clinched third place with a dramatic final-day draw against Crewe, sealing their return to League One. It was a fitting capstone for a player who has been a true leader on and off the pitch.

"Michael's story from academy player to club captain and lifting the trophy last week was a fitting and well-deserved end," said director of football Mark Bonner. "He's been a true servant and proud story in our history."

The club is also saying goodbye to long-serving winger James Brophy, who leaves after five seasons and 259 appearances. "James has been an almost ever-present in the team over the past five seasons," Bonner added. Other departures include Elias Kachunga (112 appearances in three seasons), Korey Smith, Shayne Lavery, Shane McLoughlin, Ben Purrington, and Harry Dawson.

As Cambridge United looks ahead to life in League One, fans can celebrate the contributions of these players while gearing up for the new season. Whether you're cheering from the stands or repping your team's colors, make sure your gear is as ready as the squad for the challenges ahead.