Gordon Strachan’s comments on Alfredo Morelos seemed to irk Rangers manager Steven Gerrard yesterday.
Whilst the Gers gaffer was keen to stress he wasn’t fussed, you couldn’t help but hear some slight anger in his voice. This was as he disagreed with words from ex-Celtic manager Strachan that star-striker Morelos couldn’t deal with being at a club the size of Rangers.
A red card for the Colombian at Ibrox last Wednesday cost Rangers against both Aberdeen and Dundee. Kyle Lafferty replaced the number one striker for Sunday’s trip to Dens Park, but was poor in the main.
When speaking about the subject yesterday, however, Gerrard was quick to point out Morelos’ goal-return.
“I wasn’t aware of any comments that were made, but if that’s what was said I’ll have to disagree with the Alfredo one.
“He has scored 17 goals and his form is very good, so I’ll have to disagree with that one.
” I don’t think I’m going to take too much notice of what an ex-Celtic manager says about my team.”
Gerrard right to point to goal-return
The Rangers manager is spot on to point to Morelos’ goal return this season. The fact he’s by far and away Rangers’ number one striker shows you just how well he’s performed this season.
There does remain a problem with his discipline. Three red cards already this season isn’t great form, and Rangers are undoubtedly at their best when he’s playing. His anger issues on the field need to stop, as he can be a top player without having to resort to some of the actions he does.
Strachan’s claim, however, that he can’t cope with the pressure at Rangers is absolutely nonsense. You don’t score 17 goals before Christmas if you’re struggling to cope at a club.
The ex-Celtic manager signed plenty of duds who couldn’t cope with life in Glasgow when he was Celtic manager. None of them could come close to what Morelos has achieved with his individual records at Ibrox this season.
Gerrard made a positive move in backing his star-man. The club have a huge period of the season coming up, and they have to keep Morelos in a good frame of mind.
Strachan’s words were unfair, unnecessary, and just plain stupid.
