What is the extent of Alfredo Morelos’ injury?
We will know in the coming days because he will be assessed longer but I think it will be a long-term injury. We don’t know how long yet but hopefully we can give you more news after the weekend. He’s out for sure. He had an injury while on duty with Colombia, a muscle injury. Unfortunately for him, for all of us, he won’t be available on Sunday.
Are you saying he’s out for the rest of the season?
We don’t know yet but we won’t have him back in the next couple of weeks that’s for sure.
Do you need to win on Sunday?
Yes, we need to win no matter what. It’s an Old Firm game. When you look at the standings, it’s a big opportunity for us to go onto level points. That’s the objective we have. That’s why we’ll work hard to be the winners on Sunday. So yes, we want to win.
What did you learn from the last Old Firm match?
I’ve seen Celtic play a lot of times this season. I saw the game back that we played in February. We didn’t play well, especially the first half where we had the option and the space to play the normal game we always do but didn’t have the patience and the calmness to play our possession game. That’s why you don’t come into the game, it’s only like defending and I think that’s one thing we’ve learned. I think the team is much more controlled, much more confident with the ball and that’s also what we need on Sunday against a strong opponent. We’ve shown we are strong at home and I’m confident my team will perform well on Sunday and have a better performance than we had a couple of months ago.
Is the team’s flexibility a progression from where you were then to where you are now?
It’s definitely one aspect of the game we do better. It’s also to recognise which parts of the games which system is needed. We are very dynamic, very versatile and I think our game management is better and that’s also what we need for Sunday and the remaining games of the season.
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How important is it that your leaders step up on Sunday?
It’s always important for your leadership group and players who have played this game before and recognise what’s needed in these games to win. I think that’s very important. We have to make sure we have the level we want and need to win an Old Firm game. I’m confident we will have a good performance, we want to win and will do everything to win this game.
How has everyone come back from international duty?
It’s the first time we’re complete. James Sands is coming back this afternoon from time with the USA. All the players came back fit and the only injuries for Sunday is Ianis Hagi and Morelos, the others are all available.
How big a role can the supporters play on Sunday?
They’re very important and I told the players I played the legends match on Saturday and to be on this pitch with all the people here, it took me back to my playing days. I think my players are privileged to be playing at Ibrox with such a support. The fans will be the 12th man and push us forward to a good result.
Does Morelos’ injury offer Kemar Roofe a big opportunity?
We have a big squad, Kemar played more games in the last few weeks and was very important. He had two great assists against Dundee. He’s one of the players who will have to step up and make sure he’s getting the performances to help us as a club. Kemar is ready.
Has the special nature of this season got over to the staff and players?
Of course, last season we were champions for three weeks already at this point. So that shows how quickly last season was decided. This year is closer and with the remaining games, anything can happen. It’s definitely a close season, very competitive and I think it will go all the way to the end of the season. We have to make sure we win this game on Sunday then the remaining games will be all finals. Yes, it’s closer than it’s been before and it’s a challenge, but you want challenges in life and you must embrace them and work hard to be successful.
Are you likely to be using Steven Davis between now and the end of the season?
Steven has had a lot of problems with his injuries and he was never really fully available. Every time he was starting a game or was in contention, he got setbacks in training. It was very disappointing for Steven but I’m happy for him he got minutes for his country because he hasn’t been able to play for us. We have a lot of midfield players but I think Steven with his experience and quality is a very important player. For me now, he’s available which is postive for Steven and myself.
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