Michael Beale: Antonio Colak deserves Rangers chance against Partick Thistle
Rangers boss Michael Beale has confirmed Antonio Colak will start in the Scottish Cup fifth-round tie against Partick Thistle and that he deserves his chance.
The Croatian striker has struggled for game-time under Beale not starting a Gers game since October, following the tremendous form of Alfredo Morelos and because of a number of injury issues.
Colak was the first choice in his position under Giovanni van Bronckhorst in the first part of the season and proved himself to be one of the best strikers in the Premiership, registering 11 goals from 15 games.
Speaking at his press conference [via Sky Sports, 10 February] ahead of the game, Beale said: “It’s definitely an opportunity for Colak to play. I think he’s waited, frustratingly, on the sidelines to get an opportunity because Alfredo has been in good form.
“In fairness to Antonio, he’s not been 100 per cent fit in the time I’ve been here but he’s had a really good 10 days now of solid training and he looks strong.
“So the early team news will be Colak will play. Whether he plays with Morelos or not, we’ll decide nearer the time.”
Chance to impress
This news comes as a huge boost to Colak who has struggled for opportunities and minutes since Beale’s appointment in November. Before the Queens Park Rangers manager arrived, the 26-year-old was arguably the best forward in the division bagging a terrific 11 goals from 15 games.
Things just haven’t turned out for him since then, with Beale preferring Moreslos and the Colombian impressing as the club’s key man up front.
Colak has proven this season that he’s got what it takes to lead the line for the Gers and the game against Partick Thistle is finally a chance for him to impress Beale and prove that he can probably replace Morelos, with the forward’s immediate future up in the air with the forward yet to pen a new contract.
Can the Croat finally stake his claim?
In other Rangers news, the Ibrox bank is set for a cash boost after a document emerged on Wednesday.