Barry Ferguson has praised Giovanni van Bronckhorst for transforming Ibrox striker Alfredo Morelos since replacing Steven Gerrard as Rangers manager, via his Daily Record column.
Morelos had scored four goals and provided two assists in 10 Premiership outings under Gerrard this season. But he has since struck three and created two in five appearances.
Each of the Colombian’s goals have also come during the Glasgow outfit’s last three games. He also netted twice during the Gers’ Europa League victory over Sparta Prague under Van Bronckhorst, having only scored three in nine games outside of the league under Gerrard.
Only at Hibernian on December 1 has Morelos failed to influence the scoreline in some way since Van Bronckhorst’s arrival. He had no effect on the scoring during 11 of Gerrard’s final 19 games at Ibrox across all competitions.
Ferguson explains Morelos change at Rangers
Ferguson feels Van Bronckhorst has transformed Morelos since taking charge at Rangers as the Dutchman has simplified what the forward has to do compared to while under Gerrard.
“Alfredo Morelos looks like a different player from the one who was causing Rangers fans such frustration earlier this season,” Ferguson said. “Van Bronckhorst has simplified his role in the team. He’s not being asked to drop back 50-yards to link play and start moves.
“He’s now doing most of his work within the width of the 18-yard box and, with five from the last seven matches, the goals are coming as a result.”
Van Bronckhorst influence is very much the Gers’ gain
Van Bronckhorst’s influence to transform Morelos is very much to Rangers’ gain. He has re-lit the fire in the Gers’ £1m striker and is also extracting consistent performances from him.
Morelos even impressed St Johnstone boss Callum Davidson when he delivered a standout display at Ibrox on Wednesday. The forward scored then assisted during the Gers’ 2-0 win.
Davidson told The Herald after the match that Morelos was ‘superb’, having kept things simple rather than try and do too much when the chances were not presenting themselves.
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