Rangers have an unsung hero spearheading their slim title hopes – it’s not Nico Raskin
Nico Raskin has failed to deliver the consistent performances that everyone at Rangers knows he’s capable of under Danny Rohl.
Raskin has been a passenger in midfield since Rohl was appointed, and he was once again outshone by his teammates in Rangers’ 1-0 win over Motherwell on Saturday.
With Hearts losing 3-2 to Hibernian earlier in the day, the Bears have reduced the gap on the league leaders to nine points with a game in hand.
Raskin could leave Rangers in January, with a big-money move allowing the Light Blues to strengthen their underperforming squad.
However, one man who has consistently demonstrated his class in midfield is the fantastic Connor Barron.
Connor Barron is becoming Rangers’ most important player
Should Raskin‘s Rangers career come to an end, supporters are confident that Barron can replace his influence with relative ease.
Barron is a much more defensive player, with his ability on the ball helping Rangers to recycle possession and speed up the tempo of their play.
Against Motherwell, he was everywhere and played a pivotal role in ensuring that the Light Blues returned to winning ways.
| Stat | Barron |
| Touches | 74 |
| Pass accuracy | 85% |
| Ground duels won | 80% |
| Tackles | 8 |
| Recoveries | 8 |
Mohamed Diomande’s woeful performances have left him on the bench and out of AFCON contention, and Barron has clearly emerged as Rangers’ most valuable midfielder.
Since joining Rangers from Aberdeen in 2024, Barron has made 72 appearances for the Bears, and his development has skyrocketed under Rohl.
He has become a fan-favourite in 2025-26, and has gone from being unfairly subbed off by Russell Martin in the 2-0 loss to Hearts on 13 September, to becoming one of the first names on the teamsheet.
The 23-year-old has certainly exceeded expectations, and with Raskin’s future in limbo, he may soon be playing alongside a new face in midfield.
What does Connor Barron need from his midfield partner?
Raskin loves to drive at opposition defences from deep and provides an attacking threat in his play.
With Barron focused on keeping the ball and ensuring it is moved quickly around the pitch, someone athletic beside him could bring out the best of his qualities.
A player of height would benefit the whole of the team, as Rangers lack physical presence in the centre of the park.
Most importantly, the Bears have to sign someone who can bring the best out of Barron’s game.
While Raskin has been a brilliant player at Ibrox, Barron is beginning to steal the limelight, and he needs a player of his calibre to perform alongside him.
Only then can Rangers dream of an unlikely title.
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