Steve Gerrard gives take on intriguing potential battle between Morelos and Pepe

Add as preferred source on Google

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard is just as intrigued as the fans to see Alfredo Morelos go up against Pepe tonight.

The Light Blues take on FC Porto in the Europa League at the Estádio do Dragão, with the Scottish giants seeking to bounce back from defeat last time out against Young Boys.

Rangers failed to beat Hearts at the weekend to relinquish top spot in the Premiership table, and will be keen to return to winning ways in Portugal.

One potential key battle could be the tussle between Morelos and Pepe.

Pepe has a reputation as being one of football’s most intense defenders and is known for his magnetism for yellow cards, and Morelos’ past disciplinary issues have been well documented.

Speaking ahead of the game, Gerrard said (Scottish Sun): “It is two top players who like to play the game with a lot of emotion.

“So it will be interesting and fascinating if he is selected.

“Yeah, it will be an interesting one and Buff will be well aware that he needs to channel his aggression in the right manner. Hopefully we can come through without the situation where we miss him for the home game.

“If Alfredo is selected to play, it will be a fascinating battle because Pepe has been a world-class player throughout his career.”

TBR’s view – Morelos can change perception tonight

Fiesty Morelos has picked up four yellow cards in his 19 appearances so far this season and he’s been relatively well behaved.

Against Porto and Pepe though the striker can really prove he has turned a corner.

Morelos must focus on the task at hand tonight rather than get involved in any dark arts with the 36-year-old – it’s a massive game and Rangers could do with a win.