Sky Sports pundit: Alfredo Morelos can shut people up at Rangers in Old Firm v Celtic
Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos can “shut up” his doubters by delivering a match-winning performance in the Old Firm Derby as long as he remains fully fit to play, according to Kris Boyd.
The Gers are set to take on close rivals Celtic on Monday 2 January, at Ibrox, with Michael Beale’s side needing to make inroads into the nine-point deficit to the league leaders.
Morelos has proven himself a polarising figure at the Glasgow club over the last few seasons, but Sky Sports pundit Boyd believes he has the quality to wreak havoc at Ibrox, and admitted missing him would be a “crushing blow” to Rangers.
Writing for the Scottish Sun, he said: “So far this season Alfredo Morelos has been a pale shadow of the player he was 12 months ago. But Big Buff could start building bridges if he turns back the clock against Celtic on Monday.
“Scoring an Old Firm winner? Now that would be the perfect way to win back the affection of the Ibrox faithful. This is the ideal opportunity to redeem himself and shut up a lot of people — me included.
“With few other real striking options available, losing him would be a crushing blow.”
Big game player
There is no doubt that Morelos will want to have the last say in the Old Firm Derby, and questions surrounding his fitness can be politely squashed considering the big match that awaits.
The Columbian wouldn’t miss the chance to deliver the killing blow to The Hoops for the world, and fans can expect the striker to be at his very best for the crucial encounter.
Yes, the 26-year-old has his critics, and yes, he needs the occasional nudge to get the motor rolling, but when at mercurial best, Morelos can be unstoppable.
If Beale is to salvage any hopes of a miraculous SPL title charge, it must start with a victory against Celtic, and his side can subsequently pile the pressure on as the season progresses.
With nine points the gap, the Gers boss knows a loss will surely end any chance of winning number 56 in his first season at the helm.
In other Rangers news, Neil Lennon has predicted the scoreline of Rangers’ clash against Celtic, and believes Alfredo Morelos could play a huge role.