After Steven Gerrard joked about Alfredo Morelos’ temperament, it highlighted a key part of the young Colombian’s development.
The Gers boss – still smarting after the 4-0 humbling of St. Johnstone – quipped that Morelos “even shook the hand of the referee, so he’s definitely trying!” [Evening Times]
Describing Morelos, 23, as a matchwinner, there has undoubtedly been an improvement in the striker’s temperament this season – but also in how he’s been enjoying his football.
Perhaps the two are working in tandem.
There’s also been no let-up in the physical, rambunctious style of El Bufalo’s. Against Feyenoord on Thursday and St. Johnstone on Sunday, we saw that physical, controlled, powerful forward play in abundance.
It might’ve not brought a goal on Thursday night, but his strike set Rangers on their way on Sunday. The finish was not bad either.
By October last season, Morelos had six yellow cards and two reds. This season – albeit with a week of September left – he’s only had three yellows.
In the same space of time last season Morelos managed eight goals. He has twelve already this season.
Whilst there’s been a marked improvement in the Colombian’s temperament, there’s also been a visible improvement in his own enjoyment of the game.
Gone are the snarling, biting aggressive ripostes to referees. In has come a relaxed attitude to refs, a stiff upper lip to the opposition and that cheeky smile the club’s fans love so much.
Who benefits the most?
Given he’s made the preliminary squad for the Colombian national team and playing with a smile on his face, Alfredo certainly isn’t losing out.
