‘Devastating’ Kemar Roofe claim issued after ‘huge’ Rangers blow before Celtic – pundit
Kevin Campbell has claimed Kemar Roofe “has it all to do” in order to prove his worth at Rangers after an injury to Alfredo Morelos.
The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested it is “advantage Celtic” after Morelos was ruled out of the Old Firm clash on Sunday (3 April).
As quoted by the BBC today (1 April), manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst revealed the 25-year-old is also a doubt for both legs of the Europa League quarter-final with Braga.
The Dutchman confirmed Roofe is “ready” as a potential like-for-like replacement for the striker.
Morelos was sent home from Colombia duty during the international break after suffering a thigh injury.
When asked about the impact of the talisman’s injury, Campbell told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “It’s huge, isn’t it?
“Morelos has been devastating for Rangers for a number of seasons now. He’s been a constant scorer and a constant thorn in the side of other teams.
“He’s really shone in Europe, as well.
“That’s where Kemar Roofe will have to step up – but he’s a good player as well. Maybe not as prolific as Morelos, but his all-round play is excellent – he can connect the play.
“That being said, you’ve got to say that it’s advantage Celtic if Morelos can’t be passed fit for this Old Firm game.
“Roofe has got it all to do in order to prove why he’s still got a big part to play at Rangers.”
Morelos, who is out of contract next summer, has notched 19 goals and eight assists in 42 Rangers appearances this term.
Meanwhile, Roofe has managed 12 goals in 30 appearances – many of which have come from the bench.
In other news, ex-manager tips Rangers star for new role v Celtic after Ibrox twist.