In a big blow for Rangers, key man Alfredo Morelos has been called up by Colombia for a pair of upcoming World Cup Qualifiers.
Morelos hasn’t been selected for international duty for some time, with manager Reinaldo Rueda turning to a host of other strikers instead.
However, it seems that strong club form prior to the turn of the year has helped to change his fortunes.
Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos called up by Colombia
El Bufalo netted six times in eight matches at the back end of 2021 and has now been called up for World Cup Qualifiers against Peru and Argentina.
The first fixture falls on 28th January and the second on 1st February.
Given that the games will take place in South America, Morelos is likely to be unavailable to Gio van Bronckhorst for several days either side, meaning he could miss three Premiership matches.
They are a home clash against Livingston on 26th Jan and trips to Ross County and Celtic on 29th January and 2nd February respectively.
It’s a huge blow for Rangers, who are currently already without Joe Aribo due to his Africa Cup of Nations commitments and a number of other first-team players due to injury.
Kemar Roofe is one of those on the verge of a return to action, but he could soon be called up by Jamaica for World Cup Qualifiers against Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica.
It’s not just Rangers who’ll be missing stars for the Old Firm, though, with a key Celtic player also set to miss out.
