AliousA standout midfielder has solidified his importance at a Premiership club and may soon get the opportunity to replicate that impact on the international stage.
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia introduced Rangers’ Nicolas Raskin to senior international football during Thursday’s match against Ukraine, bringing him off the bench with 10 minutes remaining.
Now, Garcia has hinted that the 24-year-old could be in line for a starting role in the upcoming Nations League second leg.
Since Barry Ferguson took over as interim boss at Ibrox, he’s unlocked Raskin’s potential, with the midfielder delivering eye-catching performances both in domestic competitions and on the European stage.
His form didn’t go unnoticed by Garcia, who gave him a late cameo in the playoff clash, testing his readiness to step up.
With Youri Tielemans sidelined by suspension for the next match in Genk, Garcia used the Ukraine game to evaluate Raskin alongside Hans Vanaken as potential replacements.
“It’s unfortunate Tielemans will miss out,” Garcia noted. “Raskin or Vanaken could fill his shoes.
We brought them both on with Sunday in mind—it’s a chance to learn. We’ll need to come out fighting from the first whistle, chasing goals and proving we’re a top side. Let’s see if we can rise to the occasion.”
Garcia’s comments suggest Raskin might edge out Club Brugge’s Vanaken for the starting spot.
The Belgium boss also acknowledged the grueling schedule Raskin has navigated recently, praising his resilience.
“He played 120 minutes against Fenerbahçe and then faced a massive Old Firm derby against Celtic,” Garcia said ahead of the Ukraine fixture. “He’ll likely need a breather on Monday to recharge for Thursday.”
After Raskin’s brief but promising appearance, Garcia might now be tempted to preserve him carefully, potentially unleashing him from the outset in the return leg.
For Raskin, it’s a chance to cement his place not just at Rangers, but among Belgium’s rising stars.
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