Neil Lennon: Michael Beale Appointment ‘Brave’ Move From Rangers

on December 29, 2022 at 3:20 pm

Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon has weighed in on Ranger’s decision to appoint Michael Beale as the club’s manager.

Lennon gave us his thoughts on Beale, the Glasgow football media and what’s next for Rangers and striker Alfredo Morelos.

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What do you think of new Rangers manager Michael Beale and his start at the club?

His reputation is good. Because he has worked previously with Gerrard, he is someone who will know the club.

He’s had a good start, albeit performances have not been as good as he would have liked. However, everything hinges on the second of January.

Psychologically, if he wins it, Rangers can move forward and it will give them a huge lift. If they lose though, it will become close to impossible for them to catch Celtic. I don’t think he will be judged on one game though, and we will have to see where Rangers are at the end of the season.

It’s certainly a brave appointment for Rangers, as from an experience point of view, Michael does not have much.

Do you think that Beale has to become more savvy when dealing with the media?

When you go to Glasgow, there’s no middle ground. You’re either the greatest or the worst. With the decision to leave QPR, he has put a target on his back for the media.

He also did not help himself with his previous comments, where he spoke about integrity and loyalty. He was only at QPR for six months, but it is a testament for the previous job he had done at Rangers. He was a highly sought after coach.

With experience, he will learn how to deal with the media better and become more media savvy, as his comments have not helped him. I think he is strong enough to brush the criticism off though and get on with the job.

Do you think Alfredo Morelos must learn to control himself better?

It is harsh to call Morelos a liability. I’m a big fan of his and I’ve always liked him as a player. He just sometimes needs to look after his emotions better but when he’s fit and confident, he can be a handful for any team.

It will be interesting to see if he starts and what condition he is in. If he is physically and mentally ready, then he can certainly cause Celtic problems.

Should Rangers sign Morelos to a new contract?

Morelos, the board and Michael will have to sit down to where his future lies. If the player really wants to stay, then he should.

His goal record is impressive. He has always had a shadow of ill discipline over his head and losing control in games and he really needs to grow out of that. However, when he is fit and consistent, he is a very good player who Rangers should keep hold of.