Derek Johnstone has identified how Rangers are trying to keep Alfredo Morelos out of trouble

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Morelos escaped a ban from the SFA for incidents during Rangers’ win over Celtic.

Derek Johnstone has told the Glasgow Evening Times that he has noticed a couple of ways in which Rangers are attempting to keep striker Alfredo Morelos out of trouble.

Morelos, 22, escaped a retrospective ban from the Scottish FA and compliance officer Clare Whyte on Thursday, as it was ruled that he was not guilty of excessive force in three incidents during the Old Firm derby.

The Colombia international was seen kicking Celtic captain Scott Brown early on, before flicking Ryan Christie after a foul. But perhaps the most contentious was what has been widely deemed as an intentional stamp on Anthony Ralston.

Rangers icon Johnstone believes that Steven Gerrard is having private conversations with Morelos to keep him calm, while Johnstone has also noticed that players are looking to keep him calm when the South American flares up on the pitch.

“The Colombian does have that side to his personality where he can hit out, that is his mindset, but that doesn’t mean he is guilty all the time,” Johnstone said. “Steven Gerrard will keep talking to Alfredo.

“I have noticed a lot recently that the players are going up to him at times and having a word with him or taking him out of certain situations. The best way for Morelos to deal with it is to stick the ball in the back of the net.

“There is nothing better than scoring a goal and then just walking by with the biggest smile on your face because that is what worries defenders and really gets to them most. That is what he will do after the winter break this month.”

Morelos has been on fire this season, having a hand in 30 goals during his 34 league and cup appearances. He has scored 20 of those himself, as well as creating another 10 for his teammates.

The former HJK Helsinki striker will now find his place in the side under threat, though. That is because Gerrard has reportedly managed to lure former England teammate Jermain Defoe to Ibrox on an 18-month loan deal.

Gerrard is also reportedly set to announce the signing of former Teddy Bear Steven Davis from Southampton, while Kilmarnock’s Jordan Jones and Dundee’s Glen Kamara have also been linked.