Rangers manager Derek McInnes has addressed the mysterious absence of Nicolas Raskin after the Belgian midfielder was once again left completely out of the matchday squad for the vital 1-0 victory against Aberdeen at Pittodrie. The decision has intensified speculation surrounding the 25-year-old’s long-term future in Govan as the summer transfer window approaches its final hours.
Raskin, who was previously viewed as a core component of the Ibrox engine room, has found regular minutes hard to come by under McInnes. His omission from the squad that traveled to the North East has fueled rumors of an imminent deadline day departure, with several continental clubs reportedly monitoring his availability.
Speaking to the media after the hard-fought win, McInnes provided a candid assessment of the situation without completely closing the door on the midfielder’s future. The Rangers boss explained that squad selection is based purely on current tactical needs and performance levels in training, acknowledging that modern football squads require difficult decisions as the transfer deadline looms.
”We have to pick the group of players who are fully focused and ready to deliver on matchdays,” McInnes stated regarding the omission. “Nic is working hard, but we are at a stage where every player in this building needs to be completely aligned with what we are trying to achieve here.”
With time running out before the window shuts, Rangers face crucial decisions regarding potential outgoings to balance the squad. Whether Raskin fights for his place under McInnes or secures a late move away from Ibrox remains one of the defining storylines of deadline day.