Alex McLeish

Fri 1 April 2022 13:00, UK

Alex McLeish has tipped Aaron Ramsey to start in a more attacking role for Rangers against Celtic if Alfredo Morelos is ruled out through injury.

The former Gers boss, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested Kemar Roofe, 29, needs help up front if chosen to lead the line versus the Bhoys.

Morelos, 25, is a doubt for Sunday’s showdown at Ibrox after the Colombian FA confirmed (26 March) he suffered a thigh injury while on international duty.

Roofe appears likely to start in the centre-forward role if Morelos is missing, as was the case for February’s 3-0 defeat at Parkhead.

McLeish suggested Ramsey, 31, could be pushed into a more advanced role to help support the Jamaica international.

Asked how Rangers can get the best out of Roofe if Morelos is missing, McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Can he fully replace Morelos as a lone striker? I think he needs to play with somebody.

“I think they need somebody next to him or at least somebody who can get very close to him. Possibly, Ramsey could do that with his attacking prowess and skills in the final third.

“Certainly, I think Ramsey can play more forward. It’s not for me, it’s obviously for Giovanni to decide.

“Last year, when Roofe was in the team against Celtic at this stage of the season, Rangers won 4-1 at Ibrox. Roofe got a couple, Morelos scored too.

“Roofe, I think, needs a guy beside him. Him being up on his own, I’m not so sure. Last season he was the guy who got goals when it mattered.

“You’re not going to launch it up to him and hold it up. If it’s a sensible pass, of course he can do it.

“If you’re asking him to be aggressive and a big strongman, I don’t think that’s his game. He’s certainly got the eye for goal.

“We saw it last season. He played a one-two and he was the guy on the end of the ball. Coming into the box, he scored a great header.”

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