Gio van Bronckhorst insists there IS a way back for Alfredo Morelos as he challenged the sulking striker to get himself fit and play a part in Rangers’ Champions League adventure, reports Andy Newport from Eindhoven .
The controversial Colombian was left behind in Glasgow as the Dutchman’s brave side stunned van Bronckhorst’s compatriots PSV to secure a sensational group-stage return after 12 years.
There were wild scenes in the away dressing room at the Philips Stadion as Rangers clinched their place in this afternoon's draw, where the club will once again take their place among the big boys of Europe. But the Ibrox gaffer is still unhappy with Morelos' fitness levels after a five month injury lay-off and cited attitude concerns following his Easter Road red card last weekend.
Contract talks for the 26-year-old - who is free to discuss a move away next summer from January - have been put on hold but van Bronckhorst is adamant there’s still a future at Ibrox for Morelos if he wants it.
And he handed an olive branch to his talisman by offering him the chance to add to his club record 29 European strikes in UEFA’s top tourney. GVB said: “One of the jobs as a coach is to inspire your players for what lies ahead and for us it was the Champions League. Of course you have the fireworks and the day we had. And Morelos qualified for the Champions League as well, he qualified for the Champions League as well.
“He is also proud that he sees his team-mates and his club qualify for the biggest competition in the world. He is still a Rangers player and I will push him the way I can to get him fit and to get the Morelos back that we all want.”
There was no sign of a petted lip after the match as Morelos joined the throng of well-wishers praising van Bronckhorst’s team on social media. Posting on Instagram, the South American wrote: “This is my team. Congratulations boys. We are back.”
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