PSV react to Rangers' decision to axe Alfredo Morelos for Champions League tie

PSV manager Ruud van Nistelrooy is glad Alfredo Morelos is not in the Rangers squad.

Morelos has been told to stay in Glasgow rather than fly to the Netherlands to be part of the Rangers camp for the crucial second-leg play-off tie at the Philips Stadion after the 2-2 draw at Ibrox in the first leg.

Morelos has struggled for conditioning and fitness this season after thigh surgery and has fallen behind fellow striker Antonio Colak at Rangers. He came on as a substitute in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Hibs and was sent off for an elbow, prompting Van Bronckhorst to act.

“I don’t know the decision-making about the Morelos case,” Van Nistelrooy said. "I cannot comment on that. But I know Giovanni is making the best decision in the interest of the club and the team. I know Gio and I know he wants to get somewhere with the team and the club he works for.

“That’s the way I know him as a professional and a person. So I am not surprised that he is still doing that.’’

Van Nistelrooy did admit relief that the Colombia internationalist won’t be available for selection, given that he has been a talismanic figure for Rangers in previous European campaigns.

“We know Alfredo and what a player he is and can be and what he did for Rangers,” continued Van Nistelrooy. “He is a very good striker, so for us we obviously focus on ourselves – but I rate him a lot as a player.

“Morelos did not start [in the first leg] and in the games before our game we saw Morelos coming on many times and not starting. So in that sense we don’t think [the decision to leave him behind] has the biggest influence. The number one striker is Antonio Colak and we expect him also for the game.”