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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Mark Walker

Alfredo Morelos sets Rangers target as striker aims to surpass Celtic legend Henrik Larsson

Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos has set out his ambition to become the Europa League's all-time top goalscorer - beating Celtic legend Henrik Larsson in the process.

The Colombian has 31 goals in just 59 matches in the competition, and scored away to Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their play-off tie.

When qualifying rounds are included that puts him third on the all-time list for the Europa League - formerly the UEFA Cup - and Larsson is out in front on 40.

And the Rangers striker has made clear his aim is to surpass the Swede and cement his place in history.

Morelos was interviewed on ESPN Colombia's Sports Centre programme and made it clear he's desperate to catch the Hoops icon, after praising former manager Steven Gerrard.

He said: "My objective is clear - to become the top scorer in the competition. That's my aim.

"But the only way to achieve that is with a lot of work and keep scoring goals.

"What I experienced with Steven Gerrard was something very nice, he trusted me a lot.

"He gave me the opportunity to always be in the starting line-up and I responded in the best way possible. We had a nice relationship that I hope will continue.

"I learned many things from him and I continue to use what he taught me."

Morelos missed Rangers' heavy Old Firm defeat at Celtic because he was included in Colombia's squad for their World Cup qualifying defeats against Peru and Argentina.

(SNS Group)

It was discovered that Morelos travelled an incredible distance of 14,832 miles for the two games...and he never even got stripped after manager Rueda didn't even include him on the bench for either game

That led to his agent, Michael Gorman, criticising Rueda by stating: "Remember when the Colombia national team manager decided to use strikers from the local league instead of the third leading goalscorer in the history of Europa League."

Morelos could face another meaningless marathon journey next month when Colombia end their campaign with two games at home to Bolivia and away to Venezuela, with the last game scheduled for just a couple of days ahead of the third Old Firm showdown of the season at Ibrox.

But he's pledged to continue to play for his country.

He said: "As a player, I feel proud to accompany the national team even in the stands.

"I feel happy personally because I am always supporting my teammates.

"The last two results weren't good, but that is football. We have to keep going, we have experienced people, there are two games left and we have to try our best to make it to the World Cup.

"I will always want to be there. Wearing the shirt is the best thing."

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