Gio van Bronckhorst sets Rangers challenge for fringe stars as Ibrox boss not worried by Alfredo Morelos absence

23.01.2022 - 02:19 / dailyrecord.co.uk

Gio van Bronckhorst insists Rangers have enough firepower to cope with the loss of striker Alfredo Morelos.

The Ibrox gaffer will be without the Colombian for crucial games including the Old Firm derby after he was called up by his country.

But Van Bronckhorst says back-up frontmen Cedric Itten and Fashion Sakala can now grab their chance.

They were given an opportunity to shine in Friday night’s 4-0 Scottish Cup win over Stirling Albion, with each grabbing a goal. Van Bronckhorst also welcomed back £4million man Kemar Roofe who came off the bench after a spell out injured.

Roofe could also miss the trip to Parkhead on February 2 if he’s called up by Jamaica for World Cup qualifiers.

But the Rangers boss hopes all three can contribute while Morelos is away.

The Dutchman said: “I think for Cedric’s confidence, it was good he got a goal on Friday.

“We called him back from his loan spell in Germany because I don’t think it was working for him or us.

“We wanted to have more options in attack and with Morelos not available for the coming games, and Itten and Kemar back, we have options.

“We’ll need those for the coming weeks as it is going to be a tight schedule with hard games.

“I’m happy Cedric is back with us. He has qualities that are different from Morelos and Roofe. Sometimes a game will need a striker like him.

“Kemar is also feeling good and it was nice to give him some minutes.

“He played against Hibs and started for us against Lyon but he has been out since then. I’m glad he is back as he has worked hard to get back to full fitness as soon as possible.”

Zambian flying machine Sakala impressed against the Binos in the cup and has staked a claim for a regular spot in Van Bronckhorst’s line-up.

His pace could be key in the