Alfredo Morelos’ suspension against Villarreal is admittedly a huge blow for Rangers, and a Villarreal forward has been quick to acknowledge it.
Carlos Bacca of the La Liga side has been speaking in the build-up to the contest. The forward is likely to be one of the key danger men Rangers have to face on Thursday night. He opened his scoring account against Leganes just yesterday in Villarreal’s first win of the season.
Bacca is himself Colombian, and was part of the international squad which Morelos was part of. The striker has spoken about how impressed he’s been with his international colleague, and that it’s a big break for Villarreal that he misses out.
Speaking ahead of Thursday night, Bacca had this to say:
“Morelos is a really good young player. I spoke to him during the international break and he told me he had been sent off in the last round so he wouldn’t play against us. He was very disappointed about it but it’s good for us because he’s a dangerous player.
“He did well when he came on in the international against Venezuela – he got a chance to score immediately. Unfortunately he didn’t take it, but he showed he knows how to get into the right position up front.
“It’s a pity for him but it’s good for us that he will be missing. He’s a strong boy and he would be a tough opponent so it’s lucky for us he won’t play.”
International recognition
Morelos is one of the few good things about the Pedro Caixinha reign. The erratic Portuguese signed him from Helsinki at the beginning of last season, and the striker hasn’t looked back.
The fact he’s getting his reputation known internationally is a terrific thing for himself and Rangers also. It’s clear Villarreal see him as the main source of danger, and it’s a shame that he can’t show that on Thursday night.
Instead, the striker will have to sit in the stands and look on thinking of what might have been. His own rashness has cost him a golden opportunity to shine, but he’ll get more. The Colombian is one of five potential stars who could miss out.
It’ll now be down to Kyle Lafferty to take on the mantle of first-choice striker in Spain. The big forward has international experience and has scored at tough venues for his country in the past. Taking the trip to El Madrigal and leading the line there certainly won’t bring any fear or concern to Lafferty.
A huge challenge does indeed await. Having Morelos available would’ve been extremely ideal. Instead, it’s down to big Lafferty to fire the Gers to success.
