Steven Gerrard praises Alfredo Morelos but isn't convinced over Rangers first-team return

Colombian back in contention after missing Kilmarnock clash amid speculation over his Ibrox future

Alfredo Morelos has been the subject of speculation regarding a move to Lille. Picture: SNS

Steven Gerrard has welcomed the improvement in Alfredo Morelos's focus - but admits it may not be enough to earn the Rangers striker a recall against Hamilton on Saturday.

Lille-target Morelos was left out of last week's win over Kilmarnock after his manager accused the Colombian of "taking his eye off the ball".

Ahead of the trip to the Foys Stadium, Gerrard - who will again be without Joe Aribo but welcomes back Leon Balogun to face Accies - said: "I'll make a decision on whether Alfredo is involved tomorrow later today.

"We've still got a session to do then we'll analyse and assess where Alfredo is at.

"What I will say is that we have definitely seen a difference in his application. He has refocused himself into training well and working hard this week.

"But that's a decision I will wait until the end of today before deciding on whether he is included or not."

Gerrard added: "As a manager you analyse your players on a daily basis and pick the ones you think are going to get you the right result.

"You don't pick on name or reputation. You pick the players who are training hard, who are focused and who are listening, taking messages on board and going to give you the best chance for your team to get the right result.

"Last week we made a decision for the benefit of the team and the squad. Cedric Itten and Kemar Roofe came in and I thought their application was really good, I was really happy with their performance considering it was their first starts. There was real positive signs with Kemar getting off the mark and Cedric's work-rate.

"What I will say is we're in much better shape from an attacking point of view in terms of options. We're not heavily reliant on one person.

"I'm hoping to have Jermain Defoe ready after the international break too so I welcome those tough decisions."

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