Despite all the controversy surrounding Belgian midfielder Nico Raskin over the past few months, perhaps even years, Rangers fans have been voting. The question concerned his presence in the Ibrox squad to face Polish side Jagiellonia Białystok for Nico Raskin v Jagiellonia.
Rangers face Jagiellonia Białystok
On Thursday, Rangers travel to Białystok for the Europa League third qualifying round. The Polish side stand between Rangers and the playoff round, with the league phase potentially beyond that.
Then came the surprise slash non surprise of Raskin’s presence in the squad. He has been on World Cup duty throughout the summer. Furthermore, he is well known to want to leave the club.
However, there is no question that Nico Raskin is one of Rangers’ best players at the moment. In fact, given the complete lack of competition for that honour, it is not really surprising.
He is, of course, theoretically the most saleable asset. However, as Ibrox Noise reported yesterday, Rangers have received no interest or bids for him. This has created a big problem when trying to shift a player who does not want to remain at Rangers.
Rangers fans overwhelmingly back Raskin
However, Ibrox Noise polled our readers and audience. We asked whether they wanted Raskin to start against the Poles on Thursday.
He is in the squad, but should he start? An overwhelming majority of 91% gave an absolutely enthusiastic yes.
The result at Tannadice has changed the context and the picture. Preseason has been absolutely diabolical.
Derek McInnes has recorded only one victory since taking charge. That came in a closed door friendly against Raith Rovers.
Aside from that, Rangers have been absolutely abominable throughout preseason and since the competitive season started.
Supporters see Raskin as the answer
Therefore, even players who do not want to play for the club, such as Raskin, are being promoted as potential answers. The fans really want to see a victory on Thursday.
Whatever some of us think about his conduct, Raskin remains a popular player among Rangers fans. Even if he wants to leave, many supporters still view him as a valuable asset.
They believe he is our best player. He probably is. However, does that mean starting him on Thursday?
McInnes faces the final decision
Will Derek McInnes do so? Time will tell on that front.
We could not possibly be sure whether the Belgian will start. He has been on World Cup duty throughout the summer. Furthermore, he has only just returned from a three week break.
His heart is definitely not in Govan. However, Nico Raskin v Jagiellonia offers him another shop window, as we have mentioned before.
The fans have spoken and they want him to start. The question is whether Derek McInnes will do so. Time will tell.