Carlton Morris hoping to emulate former Shrewsbury Town enfavourite Grant Holt

Morris was aware that Holt spent plenty of time making a name for himself in the lower leagues, before getting his chance in the top division, writes Sam Bayliss.

The Norwich loanee’s powerful lone front play has impressed sections of the Montgomery Waters Meadow faithful so far this season.

Salop’s number nine, who has always aspired to the former Town man Holt, said: ‘‘Hopefully I can follow in his footsteps – it’s been a goal for me for a while, since I used to clean his boots (at Norwich).

‘‘I’m not too proud of that, but he gave me a good Christmas bonus!

‘‘Growing up watching Holty, he was a great role model to have. He’s someone that I look up to for sure.’’

And Since opening his account in blue and amber last weekend, Morris hopes he too can forge his own path.

‘‘It just shows what you can do. Going through the leagues and getting to the top – it’s a career path I would love to imitate.

‘’I want to play games and score goals at Shrewsbury, and hopefully make a bit more of a name for myself. ’’

Paul Hurst has made no secret in wanting hungry players at the club, and the Norwich loanee certainly fits the bill.

Having spent time on loan at today’s opponents Oxford, York City, Rotherham and Scotland’s Hamilton Academical, Morris is looking to kick on at Shrewsbury.

‘‘Hopefully I can go and be prolific for Shrewsbury this season. Finishing has always been a strength of mine, but I’m working on it every day.’’

He spoke warmly of Holt, who hit 20 league goals for Town in 2008/9, as Salop lost in the League Two Play-Off Final.

‘‘He’s been really supportive of me on social media. He’ll give me a message every now and then and see how I’m getting on.

‘‘He told me to say hello to the Chairman for him! He’s always looked out for me and gave me tips and pointers during my youth days.’’

The 6ft 2in striker is excited by what Town have to offer this season.

‘‘We’ve started well – I hope we can keep it up. We’ve got some good footballers – the sky’s the limit.

‘‘There’s a bubbly atmosphere around here at the minute. Hopefully I can keep my shirt and stay fit.’’