MORGAN ON THE UP

Morgan - season of progress.

Wales youngster Craig Morgan aims to build on an improving season that has seen him win promotion, pick up a new three-year contract with Peterborough and establish himself in the national squad.

The 22-year-old has played in Wales' last four internationals and placed himself firmly in boss John Toshack's plans for the future.

Morgan acquired an unwanted reputation for being hot-headed after several disciplinary problems with his former club, Wrexham.

But his growing maturity has convinced Toshack the central defender can step up to international football.

Morgan came through Sunday's fierce examination from Holland's stars, who are heading for the Euro 2008 finals, with credit.

He said: "It was a good experience for me and that is why you want to play in these games. I have tried to take as much out of it as I can.

"Their front three, (Ruud) van Nistelrooy, (Arjen) Robben and (Wesley) Sneijder were all a handful. Until you actually come up against players like that you do not realise how sharp they are.

"We wanted to get a result and we came feeling that we could do that, but it did not work out like that. The Holland team have played a lot of games together and that was obvious.

"Robben was very sharp for their first goal. He was onto it in a flash and he was quicker running with the ball than our defenders without it, so that was something of a lesson and it was a good individual goal from his point of view."

Now Morgan aims to continue his progress as Peterborough prepare for life in Coca-Cola League One.

He said: "I have just signed a three-year contract at Peterborough, we have stepped up a division and next season is going to be a test for us all.

"I am really looking forward to that, but there is still a lot of work for me to do as far as Wales is concerned.

"We have got the likes of Danny Gabbidon and James Collins to come back hopefully and that will give the gaffer a few decisions to make at the back.

"That is what he is paid to do, and I think the Holland game was a learning curve for all of us, and for me in particular."