We’re celebrating the launch of the Read Network’s brand new World Cup website by taking a look at three Rangers players on track to be part of the action this summer.
There won’t be too many players from Ibrox set to cross the Atlantic for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but Scotland’s involvement provides a welcome dynamic this time around.
The Scots will play in their first World Cup since 1998 and players such as John Souttar, Connor Barron, Findlay Curtis and Liam Kelly will all be striving to get on the plane.
Here are three Rangers World Cup storylines worth following:
Can John Souttar get back in the team to boost World Cup aims?
John Souttar is very likely to retain his place in the Scotland squad, but can he force his way into the Rangers side before the end of the season?
Having featured in the March friendlies against Japan and the Ivory Coast, he hasn’t played much football since.
Four games remain in the Scottish Premiership season and with Danny Rohl’s team leaking goals – nine in the last four games – there is an argument for a Souttar recall.
Monday’s clash at Tynecastle will be all blood and thunder, and it could be the calling that Souttar is waiting for.
Regardless, Steve Clarke is most likely to name the 29-year-old in his squad for the World Cup
Thelo Aasgaard to reclaim his international place
Thelo Aagaard was left out of the Norway squad for the March internationals.
The national team coach sent a message that he wants his players to be featuring for their clubs, and in recent weeks, the former Luton Town and Wigan Athletic player has contributed for Rangers.
He scored against Dundee United and assisted against Falkirk, but his inconsistency was evident in the massive loss to Motherwell last weekend.
Aasgaard could have put Rangers ahead late in the second half, but squandered his chance.
He must make the most of the opportunities in the next couple of weeks to send a statement to Norway.
Raskin’s moment to shine
Nico Raskin enjoys a reputation as a key man for Rangers, with his status in the Belgian national team adding to this.
As peerless as he was in the second half against Falkirk, he had minimal impact in the loss to Motherwell.
Yes, Rangers were crowded out in midfield for much of the game, but Raskin needs to stand out more often than he does, to justify the hype.
He’s currently one of four central midfielders utilised by Belgium and that is likely to continue this summer.
One or two impressive displays from the former Standard Liege man could be enough to entice major transfer activity at Ibrox.
This is one of the most intriguing summer situations for Rangers. In that regard, Raskin is the man to watch.
