Michael Beale has responded to questions about Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos and question marks over the striker’s fitness in his latest press conference – after Derek Ferguson claimed he is “disrespecting” his teammates.
Morelos, 26, has shown signs he could return to the striker Rangers fans came to know and love under Steven Gerrard, in Beale’s first five games. He has two goals and an assist after starting four of those five league matches.
However, the Colombia star missed a couple of golden chances against Celtic on Monday. Including a header that flashed past the post from a corner. Towards the end of the game, Morelos looked as though he was lagging.
Ex-Ibrox star Ferguson told Open Goal on Thursday that Morelos’ fitness is disrespectful to his Ibrox teammates. He says that the other Rangers players look in “good nick” and will be eating the right things – while Morelos is not.
Beale was asked about criticism of Morelos and question marks surrounding his fitness. The Rangers boss reacted by saying Morelos has been playing with an injury – when others wouldn’t have. He says, only he knows what is best.
Beale responds to questions about Rangers striker Morelos
“Alfredo to his credit, I know there’s a lot written and said about it, he’s managed to play the last two or three games when another player wouldn’t. I don’t read it all, all I can do is go off his energy here, in the building,” Beale said.
“His situation isn’t ideal. I see a different boy inside. I’m the only one who knows what he’s going through physically, other than himself, to get himself fit. He has played with one or two knocks,” Rangers boss Beale told his presser.
Morelos does look as though he is lacking the fitness of his teammates. But if he is playing through the pain barrier with an injury, then question marks over his commitment can be put aside. He needs to get fitter and leaner.
But there are glimpses of the old Morelos. His aggression, his tenacity, his work rate. If he has been playing like he has with an injury, then that can only be praised. But Ferguson is right to question his fitness and it does need work.
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