Nottingham Forest forward/midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White’s journey to the Premier League is a special one, with him winning trophies at different levels. Throughout this journey, he’s always had the support of his parents, Kirk and Leanne.
Born in Stafford, Morgan grew up in a household where football was more than just a game—it was a passion passed down by his father, a prolific striker in the Staffordshire leagues. Kirk’s influence was instrumental in shaping Morgan’s early footballing ambitions.
“My dad was a very good player, a quick striker with an eye for goal,” Morgan recalls. While Kirk didn’t make it professionally, he saw some of his dream come true in his son, who showed signs of becoming a top player from a young age.
“He’s always been there for me, ensuring I learned from his experiences and stayed on the right path. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Morgan.
Morgan’s mother, Leanne, has been equally pivotal. Described as the emotional anchor of the family, she provided in a way that allowed White to grow on and off the pitch.
“Wherever I go, my mom and dad are always by my side,” Morgan shares. “They’ve supported me through every high and low.”
According to Transfermarkt, Gibbs-White possesses dual nationality, Jamaican and English, thanks to the lineage of his parents. His father Kirk Gibbs-White is of Jamaican descent, whereas his mother, Leanne, is from the UK. The family, including Morgan’s siblings, is reported to have grown up in Stafford and Ecclesall Ward in Sheffield.
Kirk and Leanne’s sacrifices began paying dividends when Morgan was spotted by Wolverhampton Wanderers at just eight years old. His talent was undeniable, as Des Lyttle, former footballer who also helped lay White’s foundations as a footballer, says, “Morgan was a bright young lad, with his feet on the ground.”
“I’d take a football to school every day and often got detention for kicking it around the corridors,” Morgan recalls “I always told my teachers I wanted to be a footballer. For me, there was no Plan B.”
Morgan’s achievements—winning the Under-17 World Cup, the Under-21 Euros, and making his Premier League debut at 16—have brought immense pride to his family. His father, Kirk, was especially vocal after Morgan’s World Cup success in India. “It hasn’t sink in yet,” Kirk admitted, beaming with pride. “To see him stand there with his medal, speechless, was a moment I’ll never forget.”
Kirk also talks about his son’s roots: “Morgan has put Stafford back on the map. He’s shown what’s possible with talent, determination, and the right people around you. We couldn’t be prouder.”
This close-knit family dynamic was evident when Morgan moved to Swansea City on loan. Accompanied by his parents, sisters Madison and Jaiden, and girlfriend Britney, the scene was more reminiscent of a family milestone than a football transfer. “It felt like moving into university,” Morgan says. “They’ve always been my biggest supporters, and it meant everything to have them there.”
The young Englishman talks about his father’s sacrifices in an exclusive with Swansea City in 2020: “They’ve always been there. I am sure my father has spent thousands of pounds on petrol over the years, but it has been worth it. He says he does not regret a moment of it, and I would not be in this situation at all without him.”
“Wherever I go my dad always comes with me, as does my mother. I would not have wanted to spend such a special day with anyone other than my girlfriend and family,” said Morgan. He talks about how it’s been the close ones that have seen his lows and that they should celebrate his achievements equally.
In 2024, Morgan’s call-up to the national side for his debut was also an emotional moment for his family. Brian Gibbs, shared the family’s overwhelming emotions. “Morgan called me in tears,” Brian revealed. “It’s unbelievable—our grandson, from Stafford, selected for England. We’re all so proud.”
Brian Gibbs recalls taking a young Morgan to parks when he was 4 or 5 to watch him play and is proud to see his progress, “I know I’m his grandad, but I’ve watched since he was picked up by Wolves when he was eight but he’s flourished a lot – big time – he’s more grown up now.”
The Gibbs-White family is a story of being one, and all close members playing a role and laying a foundation that has allowed him to become the player he is today at the international stage.