Steven Gerrard backs Rangers star on two fronts after win over Dundee United

Steven Gerrard has backed striker Alfredo Morelos after the Colombian was fortunate to avoid an early red card against Dundee United.

Alfredo Morelos challenges Dundee United's Liam Smith during Rangers' 2-1 win at Tannadice.

Referee Steven McLean showed the Rangers player a yellow card after he led with his forearm while challenging Mark Connolly for an aerial ball. Replays showed the forward lashed out at his opponent as the two came together.

The 24-year-old has netted only twice in 15 games and hasn’t scored in Scottish football since the 2-2 draw with Hibernian at Easter Road in late September.

In addition to defending his player over the Connolly incident, the Ibrox manager insisted that he has every faith in the player to rediscover his scoring touch if he remains “focused”.

Asked whether he thought it was a red card on Sky Sports, he said: "No, not really, I haven't looked at the incident back but I remember it in normal play and it was a foul and the referee has dealt with it with the yellow card. I don't think there is anything else to say on it.

"He's working hard and getting chances, maybe his confidence is affected slightly, because that pass from Kemar Roofe normally he would take that on first time. If he keeps working hard and stays focused I'm sure his form will turn.”

Rangers won the match 2-1 thanks to goals from James Tavernier and Connor Goldson. Liam Smith had cancelled out Tavernier’s incredible free-kick opener but the visitors were able to grind out the result to stretch their winning streak in the league to nine games.

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