Rangers: Alfredo Morelos issues apology over late show and vows to make amends

Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos has apologised to supporters after his late return from a trip to his homeland led to his exclusion from the squad to face Hearts in the Scottish Cup quarter-finals.

The 23-year-old was permitted to fly home by Light Blues boss Steven Gerrard, but he returned later than agreed and was dropped and later fined by the club.

Rangers were beaten 1-0 with Oliver Bozanic scoring the only goal of the game, effectively ending the Ibrox side's hopes of silverware this season.

In a message posted on social media, Morelos apologised, saying: "I wish to apologise to the club, the manager, coaching staff, all of my teammates and the Rangers fans for disappointing them with my conduct last week.

"I understand that people inside and outside the club are disappointed that I let them down and it was never my intention to do so.

"Everyone at Rangers and the fans have given me so much love that I'm so grateful for and I just want to show everyone on the pitch how much Rangers means to me."

Morelos is expected to return to the matchday squad for tomorrow's match against Hamilton.