Barry Ferguson wants Alfredo Morelos axed from Rangers XI v Celtic, ‘better off without him’
Barry Ferguson has called for Michael Beale to axe Alfredo Morelos from the Rangers starting eleven in Sunday’s [30 May] crucial Scottish Cup semi-final encounter against Celtic.
The Glasgow rivals face off at Hampden on Sunday [30 April] with Celtic chasing the chance of a treble while Rangers look for their first silverware and win over the Hoops under Michael Beale’s management.
Morelos looks set to depart Ibrox this summer and Ferguson has questioned the Colombian’s desire and motivation to perform for the Gers with his future at Ibrox still unclear.
“I said before the last Old Firm game that I would have gone with Fashion Sakala up front and I’m sticking to my guns for this one as well,” Ferguson wrote in his Daily Record column on Friday (28 April). “I believe Sakala’s blistering pace can cause Celtic’s central defence some serious problems. Obviously, that’s a big call because it means leaving Alfredo Morelos on the bench and even though I’ve always been a big supporter of the Colombian even I am now reaching the conclusion Rangers might be better off without him.
“The problem with Morelos is that you have no idea what you’re going to get from him. It’s hard to know if his heart is still in it. At his best, he can be absolutely unplayable. But all too often this season he’s been going through the motions. And Beale simply can’t afford to take any gambles or carry any passengers where this game is concerned.
“There’s no point in sitting him down, looking into his eyes and asking if he’s up for it this weekend. It’s way too late for that. Never mind Morelos, if there are any players who need to be spoken to and reminded of the importance of stopping Celtic from winning a treble then they shouldn’t be anywhere near Beale’s starting XI.”
Days numbered
Morelos’ exit from Rangers is now looking like an inevitability. The Colombian clearly wants to move onto pastures new and would’ve signed a new deal if he was looking to extend his stay at Ibrox.
And the Colombian hitman who has been criticised previously for his petulance and attitude in the past could well be axed for Sunday’s encounter, especially after his dreadful reaction after being subbed in the ViaPlay cup final too.
However, if Rangers are to finally triumph over Celtic on Sunday, Beale will desperately be demanding 100% from his key stars and with Ryan Kent potentially a doubt for the game, Beale may be forced to start the Colombian given he lacks quality alternatives in his weaponry.
Ferguson’s comments are understandable, especially considering Morelos’ knack for petulant behaviour at times but when he’s on song, he is simply irresistible and Rangers desperately need one last hurrah from him before he jets off this summer.
Another poor performance could deter potential suitors so he’s got to pull his socks up and motivate himself to perform. Also, if he wants to place himself amongst Ibrox folklore then there’s no better platform than against Celtic on Sunday.
In other Rangers news, the club are clearly playing a sick joke with their supporters after they made an announcement about a senior player this week.