sport news Steven Gerrard challenges Jermain Defoe to earn first-team spot in place of ...

'If he continues to play well and score goals, it will be interesting in three games' time': Steven Gerrard challenges Jermain Defoe to earn first-team spot in the absence of Alfredo Morelos after starring against Hearts On-loan Jermain Defoe started and scored for Rangers in 3-0 win over Hearts  Boss Steven Gerrard admits he could oust Alfredo Morelos if he continues form  Morelos is serving four-game ban after fifth red card of season in loss to Celtic 

By Gavin Mccafferty, Press Association Sport

Published: 23:47 BST, 3 April 2019 | Updated: 23:47 BST, 3 April 2019

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Steven Gerrard gave a strong hint that Alfredo Morelos might struggle to regain his starting place after Jermain Defoe sent Rangers on their way to a comfortable 3-0 win over Hearts in the absence of the suspended Colombian.

Defoe finished emphatically on the rebound in the 16th minute and only a brilliant stop from Zdenek Zlamal denied him a second before Scott Arfield followed up to round off the scoring two minutes after the break.

The former England striker has only started six matches since moving on loan from Bournemouth and now has six goals and a chance to pin down a place with Morelos out for a further three games following his red card in Sunday's defeat by Celtic.

Jermain Defoe marked return to Celtic's starting line-up with the first goal in win over Hearts

Jermain Defoe marked return to Celtic's starting line-up with the first goal in win over Hearts

Rangers manager Gerrard said: 'I'm happy with him because he has been a top professional. He has been immaculate around

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