As reported by The Daily Mail, Steven Gerrard believes Alfredo Morelos has a key role to play at Rangers next season, despite recent speculation that clubs around the world are interested in his services.

What's the story?

Gerrard is currently preparing his side for crucial UEFA Europa League qualifiers next month, on a pre-season training camp in Spain. Having already made a number of signings ahead of the new season, his squad has quickly been assembled ahead of the competitive action.

Just as important this summer though is retaining the players that can still play a big part at Ibrox, despite the club's failed season last term.

It appears that one of those players Gerrard has decided he wants to keep is Alfredo Morelos, despite reported interest from France, Turkey and China.

As quoted by The Daily Mail, Gerrard said of Morelos:

We love the player. The fans love the player. He's a goal scorer. We know what he can add to this team and squad.

If you're asking me if his head has been turned that's a question you'd have to ask the player himself. But where we stand right now he's a Rangers player and I'm delighted to have him.

I take it is a positive, in terms of the interest that is coming his way. It shows we have a good player here. A player capable of scoring heavy numbers, which is what we need.

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Can Morelos shine under Gerrard?

Morelos' reputation at Rangers took a massive hit towards the end of the season after he missed a number of golden chances against rivals Celtic, but his return of 18 goals was actually very decent for a debut campaign at Ibrox.

If he stays at the Light Blues and keeps himself fit, he should be aiming to score at least 20 goals next term, which would be a vital goal contribution for Steven Gerrard's side. The fact the new boss has so much faith in the Colombian youngster could be huge for the player and bring his game onto new heights.

There's no doubt that Morelos isn't the finished product, but Rangers shouldn't be considering offers for him this summer, unless the money involved would be trans-formative to Gerrard's squad budget.

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