Alfredo Morelos had that devilish glint in his eye again at Tynecastle on Wednesday night. In a big game, for the first time in ages, he was back on centre stage for Rangers. Winding up Hearts fans on their own patch - while lapping up the adulation from an adoring away support.
And you know what? Having played alongside Alfredo at Ibrox, I know that’s what he needs. He needs that hero-worship. He needs to be idolised. He needs to feel wanted and loved by the manager and supporters. And he needs to be THE main man up front for Rangers.
He’s been at Ibrox for five years and he’s had it all his own way in that time. But at the start of this season, he didn’t. Having that spell out injured was something new for Alfredo. Before that, he’d always been the top boy for Rangers. Whenever a big game came along he’d be playing up top. He’s been the guy all the managers have picked.
He needs that, he wants it - and he thrives on it. The celebration after his second goal against Hearts that got everyone talking - that’s what Alfredo is all about. In his head, when there’s a personal battle to be won, that’s what drives him on. Whether it’s a defender like Scott McKenna when he was at Aberdeen or Ryan Porteous at Hibs - it fuels him.
Also, the stick from the opposition fans - that puts fire in his belly too. So when he sticks the ball in the back of the net, he wants to show that he’s won the battle. Alfredo doesn’t want to be sitting watching from the side. No player does, but different people react in different ways. He was never great when he wasn’t playing. Even this season, when he came on against Hibs at Easter Road from the bench he got sent off.
He’s just not that guy. He HAS to play. When he’s not, everyone knows he’s not happy. Over the years, he’s earned the right to be one of the first names on the Rangers team-sheet. Whatever you think of Alfredo - and whether you believe he should get a new contract or not - you can’t argue with his numbers.
He’s only six goals away from being in the club’s top 20 all-time goalscorers. He’s already overtaken Ally McCoist to be Rangers’ top European marksman. Listen, I’m not comparing him to Super Ally and what he did for Rangers. But you can’t question Alfredo’s ability to score goals.
What people have questioned is his attitude. The reality is that no-one is perfect, whether you’re talking about ability or character. And what Alfredo has done is post a number of goals, which is incredible. In terms of value for money? What a signing he’s been. The question is, will he still be at Rangers next season?
I don’t know what Michael Beale or the board are thinking when it comes to Alfredo’s future. But if the player himself is thinking about leaving the club, I’d urge him to be careful. Because the grass isn’t always greener. Alfredo is absolutely adored by the fans at the club.
And a fully fit Morelos is still Rangers’ best number nine. We just haven’t seen that enough lately. He wasn’t firing at the start of this season - due to injury and Antonio Colak’s form. But I have no doubt that he’s a better option to start up front for Rangers. So, irrespective of what the club or Michael is thinking about the contract, Alfredo has to think about where he might end up.
Look at Odsonne Edouard who left Celtic. He’s a very good player and was a top striker in Scotland. He’s gone to the Premier League in England with Crystal Palace and finding himself in and out of the team. I know for a fact, that’s just not Alfredo. He won’t be able to deal with not being the go-to guy. Right now, he’s got that at Rangers. But it still might not be a guarantee that the manager wants to keep him.
Because for the club to move forward and be successful, it can’t ALL be about Alfredo. Michael will know that. Ultimately, his job is to get Rangers back to winning trophies. And with Alfredo in the team for the last five years, they’ve won a league and a Scottish Cup. That’s not enough.
It’s been a long journey back to the top. But when you get a title and reach a European Final, there’s no longer an acceptance of not lifting silverware. That’s the bigger picture. Alfredo is a big part of the club and him at the top of his game, gives you a chance to achieve these things.
But it’s not just about him. As much as he might want the attention and plaudits, he’s part of a team. Nobody can do it on their own. When he realises that, it won’t just help the team - it will make him better as well.
