Derek McInnes has always wanted to manage Nico Raskin, and now that he's got the Rangers job, he's determined to make the most of the Belgian midfielder's time at Ibrox—even if a transfer looms.
Raskin, 25, impressed at the World Cup in America and has two years left on his contract. With bids from England and Europe expected, a sale before the window shuts is likely. But McInnes is keen to use him while he can.
McInnes: Raskin 'Hits the Standard'
Speaking before the Europa League clash with Jagiellonia Bialystok, McInnes said: "I've always admired Nico. I've always wanted to be his manager. There are certain boys you're just drawn to. And for me, he hits the standard more often than not, a standard that fits this club."
Raskin came on at half-time in Thursday's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Poland, having only recently returned from a post-World Cup break. McInnes admitted he asked Raskin if he could play, and the midfielder said he had "35 or 40 minutes" in him.
"We probably got him on a bit sooner than we expected," McInnes said. "But I just felt we needed his know-how and nous about the pitch."
Transfer Uncertainty
McInnes acknowledged the uncertainty around Raskin's future, saying: "If somebody meets the club's valuation and it's something that Nico fancies, then it might be his time to move on. But while he's here, I'll try and enjoy working with him."
Raskin is expected to feature again on Sunday when Rangers host Hibs in a crucial Premiership clash.
McInnes Demands Improvement
McInnes' reign has started with a draw against Dundee United and the Europa League loss. He was frustrated with his players' decision-making in Poland, saying: "We played into their barrel too many times by making poor decisions and not being fully concentrated. But for me, that should be an easy fix."
He added: "The tie's there to be won next week and I believe we'll be better. But we've got Hibs to deal with first."
With nine new players already in the door, McInnes knows patience is thin at Ibrox. "There's an understanding as a manager when you're asked to play key games quickly," he said. "We know we'll get sharper, we'll get fitter, we'll make better decisions and we know we'll improve."
