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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Ex-Celtic manager Neil Lennon in unlikely Alfredo Morelos Rangers defence

Alfredo Morelos has received unlikely support from former rival boss Neil Lennon ahead of the upcoming New Year derby.

Ex-Celtic boss Lennon admitted he is a "big fan" of the Colombian striker as he warned the forward could cause his former club problems.

The Northern Irish manager slammed any suggestion that Morelos is a "liability" as harsh but conceded that the striker must control his emotions better.

"It is harsh to call Morelos a liability," Lennon told Football Odds.

"I’m a big fan of his and I’ve always liked him as a player.

"He just sometimes needs to look after his emotions better but when he’s fit and confident, he can be a handful for any team.

"It will be interesting to see if he starts and what condition he is in.

"If he is physically and mentally ready, then he can certainly cause Celtic problems."

Lennon went on to state that the Rangers board must meet with Morelos and Beale and put an end to the speculation over his future at the club.

He added: "Morelos, the board and Michael will have to sit down to where his future lies.

"If the player really wants to stay, then he should. His goal record is impressive.

"He has always had a shadow of ill discipline over his head and losing control in games and he really needs to grow out of that. However, when he is fit and consistent, he is a very good player who Rangers should keep hold of."

It comes after Morelos emerged as a possible injury doubt for the derby having limped off in the win over Motherwell.

Michael Beale admitted the player had been battling through "aches and pains" in recent weeks as he crossed his fingers for no serious injury blow.

He said: "I think he (Morelos) just at this moment in time had a bit of tightness. 

"He has been playing with a few aches and pains hence why he didn't play in the Ross County game because he hasn't played much this year so the two games previous took quite a lot out of him.

"Let's hope that it is nothing serious but with Antonio (Colak) and Kemar (Roofe) back in training now that gives us more options in that area and that's what we need."

At The Herald and Times we know the importance of reaching you where it's convenient, which is why we've engaged top sportswriter James Morgan to bring you an irreverent daily update on what's happening in the world of sport. Be it football, golf, rugby, cricket or something more exotic, James will tread where the best stories take him. To get this exclusive bespoke piece sent directly to your email inbox for free every day at 5pm, simply take a few seconds to type in your email here. It's that simple!

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