Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Fri 1 May 2026 16:10, UK

Nicolas Raskin has been key for Rangers throughout this whole season, but against Hearts, he will have more importance than he ever has.

The Gers could line up with Tuur Rommens back in the mix, with manager Danny Rohl confirming he is back in training.

It is a big boost for the Govan-based outfit, who have been desperately missing the Belgian fullback.

However, the performance of fellow Belgian Raskin will prove just as pivotal in Monday’s clash, with Rohl pinpointing how the Gers can get the better of the Jam Tarts.

Ahead of Rangers versus Hearts, Rohl’s words have plenty of value for Raskin, as they involve two things he regularly does for the Bears.

Why Nicolas Raskin is so important for Rangers against Hearts

Raskin will start against Hearts, and if he does not, that would be a huge surprise and risk from manager Rohl.

The Belgian has been simply exceptional, earning acclaim from fans, and Raskin’s performances earning him a large price tag at Rangers.

Speaking ahead of facing Hearts, Rohl outlined the importance of Rangers’ winning their 50-50 duels and that they must not give away “stupid fouls”.

So, when it comes to that, Raskin will certainly play a major role.

This season, Raskin has won more duels (206) than all but one midfielder, and that will be opponent Cameron Devlin (212) as per Sofascore.

However, Raskin also leads the way in the Scottish Premiership in terms of fouls conceded (63), averaging a foul conceded for every 3.2 duels won.

The Belgian midfielder will have to reduce that average when the Gers travel to Tynecastle if the Ibrox outfit wants any chance of success.

Rohl has a game plan, and that will include Raskin’s qualities but also limit his weakness. It is up to the midfielder to prove his worth now.

Nicolas Raskin must set the tempo for Rangers

It is a cliche to say that players should let the opponent know they are there, but if there was ever a time for the Bears to show aggression, it is now.

Raskin can set the tempo early on with some big duels won and really put momentum into the Gers’ favour.

With the game away from Ibrox, the Glasgow outfit will need as much of a boost as they can possibly get.

There is no better way to get a crowd off their feet than winning those big 50-50 duels, as Rohl stated ahead of the game.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.