Former Rangers boss and goalscoring legend, Ally McCoist, believes that the departure of Alfredo Morelos could potentially benefit the club in the long run, if they get the fee that they need to replace him.
Speaking on Talksport (via The Daily Record), McCoist appreciates the current financial climate and how, regardless of the importance of the season ahead, money will talk for both Rangers and Celtic if bids are made for star players.
So what has McCoist said?
When asked if he believes that his former club could strengthen their side by selling Morelos, he said:
“Absolutely. I don’t think there’s any doubt about that. I’m Morelos’ biggest fan and I was up at Aberdeen watching the game at the weekend.
“He was OK, he did fine. He didn’t look to me as though he’s firing on all cylinders.
“I think, particularly now, and I include Celtic in this, if an offer comes in for Edouard or Morelos, it’s very, very difficult for those clubs to knock it back.
“Because there’s no doubt about it, they have slipped behind in the financial race, particularly with teams down south. Survival is of paramount importance.
“I understand the importance of the season for everybody up here but, at the same time, business will overrule the lot.
“Edouard was fantastic yesterday, he got a hat-trick. Morelos is key to Rangers moving forward this season.
“But the most important thing is, if you do sell him, that A – you get a good price and B – you have to replace his goals.”
So is McCoist correct?
Replacing Morelos as an individual given his contribution, particularly over the last two seasons, is almost impossible, but if Rangers do get close to their £20million asking price they should be able to add quality in more than one area which would lessen the reliance on one player.
Will Rangers be stronger if Morelos leaves?
Yes
No
Steven Gerrard is rumoured to have cooled his interest in Kemar Roofe, however, Ivan Toney, Mirko Maric, Lawrence Shankland and Josh Maja are the names that continue to be linked with a move to Ibrox – the Gers gaffer could feel that a combination of these players would be enough to make up for the Colombian international’s departure.
Gerrard was already in the market for additional firepower before the rejected offer for Morelos from Lille and little will have changed, identifying the players that could fill the sizeable hole he would leave behind is one of the toughest challenges that he will face at the Light Blues and one that could ultimately determine his legacy at the club.