Credit: Imago

Jack Dawson

Tue 14 April 2026 16:45, UK

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Celtic fans will be furious after Frank McAvennie’s praise of Rangers star Nicolas Raskin.

The Belgium international is one of the best players in the division and has been constantly linked away from Ibrox.

His top performance on Sunday helped Rangers produce a comeback against Falkirk to win 6-3 and keep their title hopes alive.

After the recent set of games, McAvennie has now come out to hail Raskin, insisting that he wishes that he played for the Hoops.

However, this comment is unlikely to help Martin O’Neill’s side at all amid an intense battle for the title.

Frank McAvennie: I wish Nicolas Raskin played for Celtic

There is no denying that Raskin is a top player for Rangers. The midfielder clearly has ability, and it is no surprise that he is linked with a move to the Premier League.

However, McAvennie’s comments were simply not needed at this crucial time in the title race.

Talking to the Let Me Be Frank Podcast on 13 April, he said: “I know the Celtic supporters don’t like him, but I really do like Raskin, I wish he were in our team.

“He’s solid. He keeps the ball. A bit like Callum (McGregor) used to do. He gets himself forward. But he always seems to be there. I thought he controlled the game against Falkirk. We need somebody like that in our team. He’s a bit like Scott Brown, really.

“He annoys people. Really annoys opposing teams, players, and the supporters.”

While this may be the truth as McAvennie sees it, these comments could boost the confidence of Raskin while damaging Callum McGregor’s.

In such a tight title race, this could prove to be the difference.

On top of this, no former Celtic player, especially one who is considered a legend, should ever consider praising a Rangers player.

Therefore, the Celtic fanbase will likely be fuming with this honest admission.

Could Rangers keep hold of Raskin in the summer?

Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Rangers could be forced to accept a cut-price offer for Raskin in the summer.

With his contract set to expire in 2027, this is potentially the last chance the Gers have of making any significant fee.

As a result, Rangers have braced for offers ahead of the summer window, especially with Raskin having the potential to have a good World Cup.

The likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United have been long-term admirers of the Belgium international, but will be joined by rival clubs from across Europe.

As a result, it remains to be seen if Rangers are able to keep hold of their star man for another season or if these next five matches will be his last in Glasgow.