Gary Keown compares Alfredo Morelos to Nicola Sturgeon as he blasts Rangers star
Gary Keown has slammed Alfredo Morelos and compared the Rangers striker to Nicola Sturgeon in his latest Scottish Daily Mail column.
The Colombian striker has enjoyed an upturn in form since Michael Beale returned to Ibrox and is currently in talks over extending his stay.
Despite his good recent form, Keown feels Rangers “cannot afford” to be dealing with players like Morelos any longer.
“You are always on tenterhooks with the 26-year-old. Always waiting for the next big drama. And Rangers really cannot afford to be dealing with players like that any longer,” wrote Keown (Scottish Mail on Sunday, page 103, 12 February).
“Beale said after last weekend’s win over Ross County that he wants to keep Morelos at the club. Talks are ongoing over a new contract.
“There appears to be a significant section of the Rangers support keen to see that happen. When it comes to retaining the support of the rank-and-file contrary to all good evidence, Morelos knocks even Nicola Sturgeon into a cocked hat.”
Time is ticking
This take is slightly harsh from Keown. Morelos has been pivotal under Beale and to merely suggest extending his contract is a good thing is not an outrageous stance. He has his moments, but it’s certainly been a long time since we’ve seen one, and under Beale, there appears to have been a change.
His celebration against Hearts earned the 26-year-old plenty of criticism, but yet again, it felt somewhat unjustified. The home fans had been giving him abuse throughout the 90 minutes, and he was entitled to give some back after netting his second in the Gers’ win at Tynecastle.
Morelos should seriously consider renewing his contract at Ibrox. He’s at a stage in his career where his next move will be vital. He’s guaranteed minutes for the Gers and will likely go on to achieve more success under Beale’s stewardship. If he moves elsewhere, minutes are by no means nailed on for the Colombian.
In other Rangers news, the Ibrox bank is set for a cash boost after a document emerged on Wednesday.