Steven Gerrard’s post-match take on the red cards for Flanagan and Morelos against FC Ufa was spot on.
Rangers sealed their progression to the Europa League group stages after drawing 1-1 in Russia.
The Light Blues advanced with a 2-1 aggregate win, after a nervy affair at the Neftyanik Stadium.
The Gers will now particpate in the main phase of a European competition for the first time since 2010.
A stunning strike from Ovie Ejaria gave Rangers the lead inside 10 minutes.
But the Gers were pegged back when Sysuev equalised for the hosts.
Nerves were jangling after Morelos was red carded moments later.
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— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) 31 August 2018
The Colombian picked up two yellow cards in the same incident, and defender Flanagan received his marching orders in the second half, albeit perhaps harshly.
Thankfully though, the Gers were able to see the job through.
Gerrard on red card duo
Speaking after the game Gerrard said, as quoted by the Scotsman: “I’m not going to sit here and criticise the two red cards because those two players have helped us very much since I came in the door. We go up together and we go down together.
“I’m sure Jon and Alfredo will apologise to their team-mates but in terms of the nine men who were there from start to finish, I haven’t got words to describe them.
“The important thing is to learn as quick as you can. The same goes for Jon, he’s more experienced but should know better. But players don’t make mistakes on purpose.”
Gerrard displays great leadership yet again
The former England captain struck a perfect balance with his post-match comments.
The 38-year-old lept to his players’ defence, but also subtly urged the pair to be more careful.
There would be absolutely no need for Gerrard to hammer them given the euphoric feeling of qualification.
It’s good to see that he has their backs, and it’s also good that he has subtly communicated that he expects improvement from both too.
It was particularly good of Gerrard to once again make it about the team rather than individuals, thus further suggesting how tight-knit and cohesive this new group of players really is.