Danny Rohl fixes Rangers relationship with star who’s been linked with big-money Ibrox exit
Danny Rohl has had a big impact on the form of midfielder Nico Raskin since his appointment as Rangers boss.
Football Insider revealed in December that Tottenham may bid for Raskin in the January transfer window, with several other clubs tracking the Belgian.
The 24-year-old had looked certain to leave Ibrox just a few months ago, after his relationship with the previous head coach broke down.
Russell Martin dropped Raskin from the squad, as he attempted to stamp his authority on his failing Rangers team.
But in October, Rangers replaced Martin with Rohl, providing the entire squad with a fresh slate under a new head coach.
Derek Ferguson impressed by Nico Raskin shift
Rangers beat Aberdeen 2-0 on Tuesday, pushing them above Celtic and within three points of Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts.
It was a superb performance from the Gers, with Raskin undoubtedly among the standouts at Ibrox.
The Belgium international created two chances, took five shots, and got the second goal for his team on the night.
| Nico Raskin | Vs Aberdeen |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Chances created | 2 |
| Shots | 5 |
| Tackles | 3 |
| Recoveries | 10 |
| Duels won | 9/13 |
Charging into the box, Raskin met Connor Barron‘s corner with a thumping header that was too powerful for Dimitar Mitov to keep out.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the 24-year-old, former Rangers midfielder Derek Ferguson said: “He looked happy as Larry against Aberdeen.
“It’s the first time I can recall him playing with a smile on his face. I’m putting that purely down to the manager, who’s got them believing in themselves.
“He’s in a role he’s enjoying, being allowed to get forward under Rohl, and he looks happy. That wasn’t the case six weeks ago when looking at his body language – he was unhappy.”
Danny Rohl revealed ‘individual talk’ with Raskin
Despite reports linking Raskin away from Rangers, and the midfielder’s own hesitancy about his future, Rohl has remained steadfast in his view of the situation.
The German explained in December that he still sees the Belgian as a key part of his plans going forward, and that he sees his position as a “six” – a deeper midfielder.
“Nico is an important player for me and the group,” Rohl said. “We worked individually on him and in meetings I spoke with him what I want to see more.
“I had an individual talk with him in the last few days. It was very long, 25-30 minutes. I’m totally convinced that he recognises what we are doing.”
Raskin still could leave this month, however, with Rohl also facing a job to convince decision-makers at Ibrox that the midfielder should stay put past January.