‘Bitter blow’ – Alex Rae claims Gerrard must risk Rangers ace v Bayer Leverkusen
Alex Rae has claimed that Rangers manager Steven Gerrard should play Alfredo Morelos in Thursday night’s Europa League clash against Bayer Leverkusen.
The Colombian has struggled for form of late, and has just one goal in all competitions since returning to action after the winter break.
But ex-Ibrox midfielder Rae believes that the boss should keep faith with the 23-year-old, who has 14 goals in 15 Europa League games so far this season.
Speaking to Radio Scotland, as per the Scottish Sun, Rae said: “Personally I would play him.
“He has always risen to the task, particularly in Europe, even though his recent form has been really poor.
“But for me you always go with your main men, particularly in the big games – and it doesn’t get any bigger than this for Rangers. Effectively this is their last chance to progress, the domestic scene has fizzled out for them.
“You have to go with your big hitters, [Ryan] Jack and [James] Tavernier are big players, and to lose Morelos as well would be a bitter blow, but he has a decision to make, Steven.”
Should Morelos play against Bayer Leverkusen?
With Alfredo, you always get the feeling that he is just one goal away from the floodgates opening.
We all know that the Colombian is a supremely talented finisher, and despite his recent slump in form, a player who hit 28 goals in all competitions before the January break doesn’t just lose that kind of quality overnight.
The South American is still pushing to create chances too.
He has had at least three shots on goal in every game he has played since January, as per Wyscout, but just can’t seem to rekindle his scoring touch.
Perhaps it has something to do with that the fact that of those shots, just 40.75% have been on target, a marked reduction on his season average of 51%.
Bearing all of that in mind, you can understand why some people may advocate for Morelos to be dropped in favour of loanee Florian Kamberi, but the fact of that matter is that the 23-year-old is so dangerous that even during a slump such as this one, you can’t afford to bet against him.
In other Rangers news, Ibrox Exclusive: Bruce claims Gers star’s ‘baggage’ could damage long-term future.