Alfredo Morelos is 'already halfway out' the exit door at Rangers according to Ibrox hero Barry Ferguson.
And that is due, in part, to the resurgence of Antonio Colak under Michael Beale says the former Gers captain. The Croatian had injury issues when Beale first arrived in Glasgow but has returned to fine form recently including a double against Hibs in a statement 4-1 win on Wednesday while Morelos has managed just nine goals this campaign.
The lingering doubt of whether the Colombian would commit his future to Rangers has perplexed many, including Ferguson, who claims he was in the Morelos cheerleading camp. But now the 26-year-old looks set to leave Ibrox this summer and the faith shown in Colak is a sign of things to come.
READ MORE: Rangers vs Raith Rovers on TV: Channel, kick-off time and live stream details for Scottish Cup clash
Ferguson said in his Daily Record column: "It’s almost as if Beale has thrown down the gauntlet and challenged him [Colak] to prove that he is the striker Rangers need to take the club forward into next season. And with Morelos now back on the bench, it does look like a sign of what the future might hold.
"I had always hoped that the Colombian would settle down, sign a new contract and stay with the club in the long term. When others were screaming to see the back of him, I was always Morelos’ biggest supporter. But it does look to me now as if his head is half way out of the door already and I’m coming to the conclusion that a parting of the ways might be in everyone’s best interest.
"No-one can say that Rangers haven’t had value for money out of the guy. His goals record has been phenomenal and when you consider that he was picked up for a fee of £1m he’s been an absolute bargain over the years.
"But the fact that Beale has reintroduced Colak to the starting XI at this point in the season tells me that the manager is already planning ahead. And Colak has responded by showing what he is really all about."
READ NEXT:
- Key Rangers Fashion Sakala trait praised as pundit hands him 'at heart of everything good' verdict
- Rangers player ratings vs Hibs as Fashion Sakala and Antonio Colak shine at Easter Road
- Ange Postecoglou in Celtic 'make allowances' admission as boss lauds 'really good' Hearts approach
- Ange Postecoglou 'here's to 100 more' banner as Celtic boss' landmark hailed with Christmas quip
