Rangers star Alfredo Morelos must ignore the “narrative” around his Old Firm goal drought and focus his energy if he’s to fire the Gers to glory over Celtic this weekend.
That’s according to Ibrox legend Brian Laudrup, who has also called on the experienced heads representing the blue side of Ibrox to guide Steven Gerrard’s team to victory.
Speaking in his monthly column for the Daily Mail, Rangers legend Laudrup has talked up the “box-office” clash between Morelos and Celtic defender Shane Duffy.
But the Great Dane is well aware of Morelos’ Old Firm goal drought, urging the striker to forget about going into the match.
“Alfredo Morelos v Shane Duffy is one that promises to be box-office material. A physical match-up taken to the limit,” writes Laudrup [as quoted by the Daily Record].
“Morelos has a long trip back from international duty with Colombia but, if he starts, he will inevitably be the focus of a lot of attention.
“We all know his temper is an aspect he sometimes struggles to control, although we haven’t seen as much of that this season.
“Duffy is an old-school centre back. He knows his tricks, without offending him.
“He is superb in the air both defensively and when attacking set-pieces – which he has already shown – but he lacks a bit of pace in certain area.
“If Morelos can drop deep and drag him out of position, there could be space to exploit in behind Celtic’s back three. Ryan Kent has already shown he can do that.
“Scott Arfield is another whose late runs are very difficult to track. These are weapons that could hurt Celtic if their defenders are not at the very top of their concentration.
“Of course, the fact Morelos has never scored in an Old Firm match is part of the narrative here.
“It must be incredibly annoying in his mind, but I think the Rangers management team will try everything in their power to make him focus on his performance first.”
Rangers star Morelos is yet to find the back of the net in an Old Firm in 12 attempts but will be desperate to resolve the matter this weekend.
But with the Colombian facing a long-trip home from South America and Rangers having a wealth of options up front, does Steven Gerrard face a selection dilemma this weekend?
