Darren O'Dea reckons Rangers star Alfredo Morelos is harshly treated
Darren O’Dea has told the Evening Times that he reckons Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos gets more punishment than he deserves – and admitted that he’s kicked the Colombian before.
Morelos, 22, is in explosive form for Rangers. This season, he has scored 28 goals in all competitions already. He has also shown his creative side, turning provider a further 10 times.
The former HJK Helsinki striker made it 28 on Wednesday night. Scott Arfield’s excellent pass allowed Morelos to tap home into an empty net against O’Dea’s Dundee in a convincing 4-0 win.
(photo by David Young/Action Plus via Getty Images)
O’Dea is renowned for breaking through the ranks at Old Firm rivals Celtic. But that did not stop the Irish journeyman dishing out huge praise for Morelos.
“I went down in the first half but it was just a bit of fun – I kicked Morelos and he kicked me. He’s a good player and I always enjoy playing against him,” O’Dea said.
“He’s physical and likes the rough and tumble. He gets kicked a lot so it’s only fair he kicks out the odd time. He’s up for a scrap and gets a name for going over the top but probably takes more punishment than he gives out.
“I’ve no issues with him.”
TBR’s view
Yes, Morelos is renowned for his lack of discipline. Certainly, it has hampered Rangers’ season when he is not available. But without that edge, would the £1million signing (Scottish Sun) from Helsinki be that good?
He plays on annoying and angering defenders. It clouds their judgement, pushing them into making rash decisions. Morelos’ edge is the reason why he has scored 28 goals this season.
So, with cover like Jermain Defoe, Rangers have everything in place for Morelos to be his nasty, aggressive self. Because when he does get suspended, the Gers have top-class quality in reserve.
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
