Gerrard must ensure Lafferty does not stitch him up like Northern Ireland boss O’Neill

Add as preferred source on Google

Lee Dixon and Ian Wright did not hold back with their assessment of Kyle Lafferty’s antics on international duty.

The former Arsenal duo took to ITV’s Nations League highlights show to slam the Rangers forward; for pulling out of Michael O’Neill’s Northern Ireland squad at the very last minute.

Wright described the conduct as disgraceful; after the forward called his international manager to withdraw from the international squad at such late notice, forcing O’Neill to alter his plans in a major way.

It shows contempt for the manager and team-mates. Even if we are past the stage now where players are criticised for turning down the chance to play for their country – which some would still denounce as shameful – to protect their fitness, it is a poor show.

Steven Gerrard will be pleased that his man is protecting his body over the course of a long season, but Lafferty’s conduct also presents a challenge.

He must ensure that he is treated with more respect; Lafferty cannot take liberties at Ibrox or it will upset the team spirit of the whole squad.

For a new manager like Gerrard, that could prove a big ask. The big black mark next to engineering Lafferty’s return was his attitude.

He can be a talisman, and has been for Northern Ireland in the past. But this conduct shows he can be a hindrance and Gerrard must not allow that.