Rangers rarely receive such glowing praise from the Parkhead legend
Alfredo Morelos regularly generates headlines, but is often portrayed in a negative light.
That hasn’t been the case in recent days, as the Colombian has attracted plaudits for his decision to stop playing after an opponent went down injured.
During Thursday’s 5-2 win for Rangers against Royal Antwerp in the Europa League at Ibrox, Morelos found himself in a promising position.
The 24-year-old had the opportunity to bear down on goal or play in a team-mate, but instead abruptly brought proceedings to a halt with defender Jérémy Pierre Gelin in pain on the touchline.
That act has now been applauded by former Celtic man Chris Sutton, who often delights in winding up the Ibrox faithful.
Speaking on BBC Five Live’s ‘Sensational, Amusing, Shocking’ segment, he said: “You’re not going to believe this but it’s who has been sensational.
“And it’s Rangers’ star striker Alfredo Morelos, now known as Alfredo the Great.
“In the Europa League on Thursday, Alf and Jérémy Gelin were sprinting after a ball when the Antwerp defender pulled up with a hamstring injury.
“Rather than head towards goal as most players would, Alf stopped the play and allowed the Antwerp medical team to go onto the pitch and treat the player.”
Sutton couldn’t resist a dig, however, adding: “A noble act of sportsmanship but our Alfie did let himself down with a desperate dive in the second half and Rangers were awarded their 237th penalty of the season.
“All the same, well done Alf – that was great, in fact it was sensational.”
Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, whose brother Jordan was playing in midfield for the Belgian side, posted a tweet during the game which read: “Fair play to Morelos from Glasgow Rangers. Through on goal and stopping for injury of the opponent…great sportsmanship.”
After a weekend off, Rangers return to action on Wednesday night when they face Livingston at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
