- James Tavernier’s contract at Rangers runs out this summer
- Danny Rohl hailed Raskin for his leadership in Falkirk victory
- Raskin wore armband in last season’s Old Firm victory
James Tavernier’s contract is running out at Rangers and with no word on a renewal, Nico Raskin is an ideal candidate to be his replacement.
Yes, Jack Butland is vice-captain but with his contract not extended beyond June 2027, that option runs the risk of a short-term captaincy.
Therefore, with Nico Raskin’s performances of late receiving attention, is he priming himself to become Rangers’ 35th permanent skipper?
Raskin’s leadership in Falkirk comeback praised by Danny Rohl
Raskin’s performance in midfield was a shining light in the second-half as Rangers roared back to remain a point below Hearts in the title race.
This led Rohl to describe the 25-year-old as his “guy on the pitch” which demonstrates the trust that the German has in the Belgian to carry out his instructions and drive the system on the pitch.
Knowing that your manager has publicly expressed his trust in your leadership is vital for any player.
Therefore, this could be a strong hint from Rohl that he is eyeing up the 25-year-old to fill Tavernier’s shoes sooner rather than later.
Raskin captained Rangers to victory in last year’s Old Firm clash
Another sign of Raskin’s suitability to wear the coveted armband is that he has already worn it.
The midfielder was handed the important responsibility for not just any match, but in the Old Firm after Philippe Clement offered the then 23-year-old the opportunity in the absence of Tavernier and Butland.
Rangers ran out 3-0 winners that day, and to captain Rangers to a victory over their rivals demands strong leadership qualities.
It is a testament to Raskin that he rose to the pressure and although it was last season under a different manager, it highlights that he understands what the role of skipper entails.
Promotion to captain would cement Rangers stay amid interest
Raskin is one of Rangers’ prized assets and the club are bracing themselves for interest in his services this summer.
Any announcement that he is Tavernier’s replacement would surely see any potential move dead in the water.
What is also clear is the strong relationship between Raskin and Rohl, with both men clearly holding the other in the highest regard.
And filling in the shoes of Rangers’ longest-serving captain since John Greig would only confirm that and would be a well-deserved reward for his strong displays of late in an unprecedented title race.
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It is important to stress that James Tavernier may well put pen to paper on a new contract.
But if he doesn’t, then Raskin possesses the leadership, trust and experience to step up.
When Tavernier does leave, whether it be in the next few months or not, it will mark the end of an era at Ibrox and appointing 25-year-old Raskin would mark the beginning of a bold new chapter.
