Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin missed training today ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash against Real Betis at Ibrox.
The Gers are busy preparing for the first Europa League game of the season with Betis heading to Glasgow.
Michael Beale couldn’t guide Rangers into the Champions League but now has another chance to make an impact in Europe.
Saturday’s 2-0 win over St Johnstone was a real boost but Rangers will have to step it up against Betis.
Sadly, it looks like Beale may have to look for success without midfielder Nicolas Raskin…
Nicolas Raskin missing from Rangers training today
Sky Sports reporter Mark Benstead has been down at Auchenhowie this morning, watching Rangers training ahead of the Betis clash.
Benstead pointed out one potential concern for Rangers fans with midfielder Raskin nowhere to be seen.
Benstead noted that Raskin hadn’t appeared for training and missed Beale’s session as he prepares his players.
No injury has been confirmed just yet and Raskin got through 90 minutes against St Johnstone on Saturday, but it sounds like the £1.75million signing from Standard Liege could miss out on Thursday night.
“One player missing from this part of the session at least, and perhaps a concern for Rangers supporters, is Nicolas Raskin,” said Benstead. “He’s been an important player so far this season, a really key figure in the heart of that Rangers midfield, but so far this morning, he has not appeared for training,” he added.
Who could line up in the Rangers midfield?
Beale still has some options in midfield even if Raskin isn’t available.
John Lundstram and Ryan Jack are two experienced heads who have featured for Rangers plenty of times in European games.
Jose Cifuentes will be in contention too; the Ecuadorian was an unused substitute against St Johnstone and may be primed to feature against Betis.
There may still be some hope that Raskin can get himself back in contention over the next 24 hours but Beale may have to make alternative plans in his preparations.
