Rangers: Alfredo Morelos development shocks pundit as Michael Beale decision made at Ibrox
We’re delighted to welcome Tam McManus as our exclusive Rangers columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Ibrox…
Tam McManus was shocked by Michael Beale’s decision to start Alfredo Morelos for Rangers’ 2-0 win over Dundee United at Ibrox last weekend.
Morelos, 26, played 73 minutes on Saturday (1 April), in what was his first start since the Viaplay Cup final defeat to Celtic at Hampden Park on 26 February.
The Colombia international’s contract at Ibrox expires this summer and there’s little suggestion that the Gers will be looking to keep him on longer.
That’s why McManus was surprised to see Morelos in the starting line-up for the Scottish Premiership clash with Dundee United.
Speaking to Ibrox News about Beale’s decision, McManus said: “I was shocked.
“I thought that he wouldn’t start again but maybe Beale’s just trying to give him a runout.
“I don’t know what the thought process is. Maybe there’s a sniff of Morelos staying? But I wouldn’t have thought so. I think he’ll be away in the summer.
“Maybe Beale just wanted to give him a chance if he’s been doing well in training but I don’t think he’ll be there next season so I was surprised at that. It was unexpected.”
TeamTalk reported on 4 April that Crystal Palace are ready to make a move to sign Morelos in the summer while Aston Villa and Everton are also monitoring developments.
The ex-HJK Helsinki striker has scored 10 goals and supplied seven assists in 39 appearances across all competitions for the Light Blues this season.
In other Rangers news, this Ibrox coach is being tipped to leave Govan for a “big club in England” as managerial speculation emerges south of the border.