Raskin exit stance decided – Three things learned from Rangers v Panathinaikos
Rangers got the Russell Martin era off to a flying start as they beat Panathinaikos 2-0 in the first leg of their Champions League qualifying tie.
The Gers overcame a difficult opening period to down the Greek giants and take a commanding lead into the second leg in Athens next Tuesday (29 July).
Stunning strikes from Findlay Curtis and Djeidi Gassama were enough to see off the visitors, on what was a fantastic second-half performance from the Govan outfit.
Martin has secured his maiden Rangers victory at the first time of asking and here, Ibrox News picks out three things we learned after a memorable European night.
Butland appears to be back to his best
There have been suggestions that Jack Butland could have been on his way out of Rangers this summer, after he endured a challenging campaign last time out.
However, the shot stopper appeared to be firmly back to his best in the victory on Tuesday (22 July) night.
The Gers struggled to settle into the game in the early stages, and the gloveman was on hand to make several impressive saves to ensure the score remained 0-0.
Butland hasn’t really hit the heights that were expected of him since moving north of the border, but he looked to be a dominant and assured presence against Panathinaikos, and Rangers will need him to put in several more performances of that quality as the season plays out.
Martin needs time to iron out issues
Martin has had very little time to prepare his squad for their continental clashes, and that showed, particularly in the first half.
The 39-year-old handed out three competitive debuts, two of them within the backline, and in truth, the first half performance was indicative of a side who were still trying to find their way a little.
They were caught wanting too much time on the ball in their own half on several occasions, while they alcked the organisation from set pieces that a more settled team would have.
On the other hand, the second half display was largely excellent, and the new boss will certainly back himself to iron these issues out over time. They were definitely more teething issues than anything to be seriously concerned about.
Raskin is ready to explode this season
Rangers have been trying to fend off interest in Nico Raskin this summer, and from Tuesday’s (22 July) evidence, they simply cannot let him leave.
The Belgian was excellent for the Gers last term, but he now looks ready to take his game to a new level after another impressive performance.
| Apps | Goals | Assists |
| 33 | 4 | 10 |
The midfielder looked a constant threat to the Panathinaikos backline, as he drove through the lines on numerous occasions to work his way into dangerous areas.
Raskin has at times been subject to suggestions that he should produce more in terms of goals and assists, but if he keeps on performing like that in the attacking half, then he could be ready to explode under Martin this season.
Sign up for the Ibrox News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Rangers news sent straight to your phone.