Rangers manager Steven Gerrard should start Alfredo Morelos over Jermain Defoe against Celtic because of his work-rate and mean streak, believes Barry Ferguson.
Morelos was sent off five times last season and his last red card came against Celtic in a crucial Old Firm meet near the end of the season.
After going 1-0 down at Parkhead, the fiery Colombian elbowed Celtic captain Scott Brown in the face after some provocation.
Rangers fought back in his absence but eventually lost 2-1 and Morelos was only introduced as a late substitute when Gers beat their rivals two weeks later.
The striker has got off to a quick start this campaign, scoring 10 goals in all competitions, while Defoe has six.
Ibrox legend Ferguson believes Gerrard will, and should, start with Morelos despite concerns over his discipline.
“That’s a big decision given what happened last season when he left his team-mates in the lurch at Parkhead,” Ferguson told the Daily Record.
“I said afterwards he was more trouble than he was worth. But he has won me over – again.
“I don’t want to count my chickens but I do see signs that the penny may finally have dropped.”
Morelos has been carded twice this year in 11 appearances but is expected to undergo more provocation from Celtic if selected by Gerrard.
Ferguson feels the 23-year-old should fight fire with fire, saying: “I’d give him this opportunity to go out there and ruffle Celtic’s feathers.
“Because when Morelos concentrates on doing what he does best he’s a massive handful for any defender.
“Obviously Jermain Defoe presents a different problem because of his movement and his intelligence.
“But Morelos is just a constant menace because of his physicality and work-rate, and that’s what Rangers will need to win this match.”