Rangers have two players in the World Cup quarter-finals, but that is not a sign of success at Ibrox. Despite Nico Raskin and Thelo Aasgaard's presence in the last eight, most Rangers fans would be happy to cash in on the pair this summer.
Raskin Shines for Belgium
Raskin delivered an outstanding performance in Belgium's 4-1 last-16 victory over the USA in Seattle. The 25-year-old created the opening goal for Charles de Ketelaere and dictated the tempo throughout the match. Selected ahead of Kevin de Bruyne, Raskin is now certain to start the quarter-final against Spain.
However, his World Cup form contrasts sharply with his inconsistent displays for Rangers. Despite threatening to become a leader at Ibrox, he has failed to deliver consistently. His best spell may have been under caretaker boss Barry Ferguson, and the standard of players around him has often been lacking.
Time to Sell Raskin
With two years left on his contract, Rangers should look to sell Raskin now. The club could command a fee of around £15 million, a healthy profit on the player they signed for next to nothing from Standard Liege. The funds would help new manager Derek McInnes rebuild the squad, with Dan Neil already added and midfielders like Vanja Dragojevic and potentially Lewis Ferguson in the pipeline.
According to sources close to the player, this is the optimum time to move on, with a likely next step being the Premier League. The market for Raskin is expected to open up once Belgium exit the tournament.
Aasgaard's World Cup Impact
Aasgaard, 24, has only played one game at the World Cup but scored a brilliantly taken goal against France in Norway's group stage loss. However, like Raskin, he has not delivered at Ibrox. Signed from Luton Town for £3.5 million, he scored eight goals in his debut campaign, but one was against Annan in the Scottish Cup and two came in the last week of the season after Rangers had blown their title hopes.
Aasgaard looks more suited to a technical style of play rather than the physicality of the Scottish Premiership. Despite a long-term deal at Rangers, the club would listen to offers this summer, even if he plays a part in Norway's quarter-final against England.
Rebuilding at Ibrox
Offloading two players in the latter stages of a World Cup might sound bonkers, but for Rangers and McInnes to rebuild and challenge for titles again in Scotland, it is a necessary step. The club's hierarchy should be rubbing their hands at the thought of bids coming in for Raskin and Aasgaard once the tournament is over.
