It would be a “backwards step” for Rangers to re-sign Alfredo Morelos despite some fans calling for his return, according to Scott McDermott.
Speaking on the Record Rangers podcast on Thursday (7 December), the Sunday Mail journalist said he understands the sentiment behind some supporters wanting the Colombian forward back after his previous exploits at Ibrox.
But he believes people are forgetting that the 27-year-old was “absolutely awful” during his last two years with the Light Blues before leaving for Brazilian side Santos, where he has just been relegated.
When asked if Rangers should sign Morelos back, McDermott said: “I’m not having it. I just think that, beside from anything else, it would be a backwards step, going back to a guy that’s been there for five years and then left for a season.
“I understand the sentiment, I understand that there’s a generation of Rangers fans who treat Alfredo Morelos like a hero for what he did. He had two or three seasons where he was excellent, particularly in Europe, the club’s all-time European top scorer.
“No one can ever take that away from him, but I think a lot of people are forgetting those last 18 months to two years that Morelos had at Rangers. I can’t beat around the bush, he was awful, absolutely awful as a centre-forward.”
Makes no sense
It wouldn’t really make much sense for Rangers to consider bringing Morelos back despite what he previously achieved at the club.
McDermott is right that people are probably thinking more about his first few years at the club rather than how his time ended in Glasgow.
The forward scored just 12 goals in 45 appearances last season, while he struggled with his fitness and injuries during his last couple of years at Ibrox.
That situation hasn’t improved during his time at Santos, where he has made just three appearances due to a hamstring injury and his side have just been relegated.
As Philippe Clement is looking to change the culture of the club and stamp his authority on the team, it feels as though this would be a potential signing that wouldn’t align with what he is looking to achieve.
