Former Rangers star Nacho Novo has lifted the lid on Alfredo Morelos’ feelings off the pitch and insists that he is loving playing at Ibrox.
The Colombian star has established himself as one of the Light Blues’ most important players since his arrival in the summer of 2017 and his goals have resulted in plenty of speculation linking him with a move away from Glasgow.
However Novo, who was the striker’s translator under Pedro Caixinha and now a friend and trusted confidant at Ibrox, has revealed things are positive behind the scenes and that he has told the hitman to remain on board under Steven Gerrard.
He told the Daily Record: “When I was helping Pedro I got to know Alfredo and he’s a nice kid. He’s totally different in private than when he’s on the park.
“He’s nice, speaks to everybody, has a laugh in the changing room with the guys. We’ve been out for meals. We don’t talk much about football, I just told him a few times he needed to control himself more on the park.
“I told Alfredo it was better to stay here and play for a couple of years more. He loves it here. He’s here with his wife which helps. He also has a very good friend in Danny Candeias. They are a good group together.”
Opinion
It all sounds very positive from Novo and that will have the fans breathing a huge sigh of relief. It is one thing to hear the player saying that he is happy and he wants to stay – often in interviews where their media training kicks in – but to hear it from a trusted friend and ally means a whole lot more. He certainly does not look like he is enjoying his time in Scotland on the pitch – referees and opponents alike winding him up on a regular basis – but he will no doubt be delighted with his goal haul this season. Will his impressive record result in a move away? You would certainly not bet against it but as Novo says, the striker has a good life in Glasgow with his family and friends. Sometimes the pursuit of money and glory is not outweighed by the things off the pitch. The Rangers faithful will be hoping that is very much the case when the summer transfer window swings open at the end of the season.