Steven Gerrard has spoken out about star turn, Alfredo Morelos. as quoted by the Daily Record.
The Colombian international’s header booked the Gers a spot in the Europa League proper on Thursday night. Yet, it wasn’t so much his goalscoring ability but his behaviour that was discussed ahead of Sunday’s Old Firm.
Last season, El Bufalo was the top scorer in the Scottish Premiership. However, it was his poor disciplinary record which more frequently dominated the headlines. Five red cards (one rescinded) and 18 yellows is some haul, many of which could have been avoided.
His red card 30 minutes into a Celtic Park Old Firm back in March finally prompted firmer handling from his manager. Even after Morelos’ suspension was served, Gerrard consistently selected Jermain Defoe up front and left the South American in reserve.
Now, though, it seems fears of lashing out have been allayed.
Rangers boss Morelos praises Morelos ahead of Old Firm selection call
“There has definitely been a marked improvement in Alfredo’s discipline this season,” said Gerrard, as quoted by the Daily Record. “If he’s selected, all eyes will be on him again. I’m sure he knows that, he’s aware of it.”
“He has not been involved in anything untoward – or in letting anyone wind him up. So he just has to stay focused and do what he has to do for the team, as he did on Thursday night.
“There was a situation at the end of the game the other night. There were handbags with the two teams getting involved. You had one frustrated team and one jubilant team. I was a bit disappointed to see it but I did notice that Alfredo didn’t go anywhere near it. That was good to see because that’s the type of stuff he doesn’t need to get involved in.”
Verdict
In May, when the Gers defeated Celtic 2-0 at Ibrox, Jermain Defoe led the line. A benched Morelos was still very much being made to pay for lashing out at Scott Brown two months previous.
At that stage, it was abundantly clear that the manager didn’t trust him to steer clear of trouble.
However, these comments suggest the tide has turned in that regard.
Before Thursday night’s late heroics, Gerrard may still have been torn as to who to pick up front for this one. Morelos has to be the big favourite to start up top now, though, with Defoe providing ammunition from the bench if and when required.
The manager will be hoping that rather than letting him down, the 23-year-old can be the hero once again and net his first Derby Day goal.
