RANGERS star Alfredo Morelos received a hero’s welcome last night as he played in a charity friendly match in his hometown.
The Light Blues striker flew back to Cerete, Colombia, straight after Sunday’s win over Celtic to play in the game.
Rangers star Morelos lines up before kick-off
The Colombian international set up the Alfredo Morelos Foundation earlier this month to help deprived children in the country.
And he organised last night’s encounter between a team made up of his friends and Colombia’s Soccer Stars to benefit those most in need.
Morelos met with some of his young fans prior to kick-off as more than 7,000 people packed out the Alberto Saibis Sakr Stadium in Cerete.
Players including Zenit St Petersburg midfielder Wilmar Barrios, Millonarios star Cesar Carillo and Colombian international Roger Martinez were just some who took part.
Morelos’ team wore Rangers’ red kit with ‘Morelos 20’ on back of tops
Both teams were kitted out in ‘Morelos 20’ Rangers jerseys and shorts, with Alfredo’s side wearing the red away kit.
While Colombia’s Soccer Stars lined up in the third kit.
The fundacionalfredomorelos official Instagram page shared footage of the two teams lining up before kick-off and thanked those who went to the match.
They wrote: “Thank you all for attending the Alberto Saibis Saker Stadium in Cerete and helping the needy with food.”
Morelos looked in good spirits despite his red card in the 2-1 Old Firm derby win over Celtic at Parkhead.
His dismissal – which came after a second yellow card for simulation – also sparked a touchline rammy between Gers coach Michael Beale and Celtic No2 John Kennedy.
Ryan Kent and Nikola Katic grabbed the goals for Steven Gerrard’s side as they moved within two points of the Hoops – having played a game less.
The Light Blues return to Premiership action on January 22 when they host St Mirren at Ibrox.
Rivals Celtic travel to Kilmarnock on the same night.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk