Michael Beale followed through on his high praise for Antonio Colak in recent days by retaining him in the team to play Hibs at the expense of Alfredo Morelos.
The Croatian international formed part of a three pronged attack, alongside Ryan Kent and Fashion Sakala, who wreaked havoc on Hibs despite the hosts grabbing the first goal of the game.
It was a Rangers return to remember as Beale’s team got the job done in style, with goals from a James Tavernier penalty, followed by a brace from Colak either side of Sakala’s fine finish.
There was so much to be satisfied about but on a personal level, Morelos was said to be unimpressed with dropping down to the bench. That is a natural reaction from a striker who wants to play but there can be no complaints after what was witnessed in Wednesday evening’s game, following on from Kilmarnock at Ibrox last Saturday.
The manager told BBC Radio Scotland Sportsound post-match last night:
“I thought Antonio was really good tonight as well (after complementing Sakala’s performance). I’m seeing a fit Antonio now. I thought he was brilliant at the weekend. He didn’t score, but he made up for it for a couple of goals tonight, and now the competition’s there.”
“Alfredo’s not happy to be out of the team, but it’s fair and right that when you know someone plays and they play well, they keep the shirt and now I have an issue that I have a few players waiting on the sidelines and that’s what good squads have.”
The result and impact vindicated the selection call. It was a performance to relish and enjoy, ahead of Scottish Cup action at the weekend.
That game against Raith Rovers offers a chance for Beale to allow more momentum for Colak or to challenge Morelos to prove his worth and hunger to impress. The Colombian international won’t have it all his own way and especially not now, given the ongoing contract situation as well as having to compete with the man signed from PAOK.