Rangers have new Nicolas Raskin dilemma - it's not transfer related
Nicolas Raskin has been heavily linked with a Rangers exit, but his focus right now remains on the World Cup.
However, the significant interested in his services is not the only dilemma that the Gers are facing when it comes to the 25-year-old.
Raskin starred in Belgium's 3-2 extra-time win over Senegal on Wednesday, and that may provide a new issue for the Light Blues.
They are set to face Dundee United on 31 July to open their Scottish Premiership campaign.
However, they are likely to be without Raskin for that contest at Tannadice Park.
Why Nicolas Raskin could miss Rangers' opener vs Dundee United
Raskin's Belgium will be involved in the round of 16 at the World Cup, with a clash with the United States up next on 7 July.
Given that FIFA mandate a 21-day rest for players, that means that he will not come back to Auchenhowie until 28 July.
With the clash with the Tangerines being just two days after he returns to training, it is unlikely that will be ready to feature.
He will miss the entirety of pre-season, meaning that it will be difficult for him to get up to speed quickly, especially with the new manager implementing his own system.
Could Raskin miss even more matches?
Obviously he could return for the contest if he feels ready, but if the Red Devils progress any further, he would definitely be ruled out.
The quarter-finals are held between 9-12 July, and their proposed clash would be on 10 July, so he would not make it back in time.
If that scenario plays out, then Raskin would be eligible to return to training on the date that the Gers open their season, surely ruling him out.
The semi-final would take place on 14 July, which would leave the midfielder eligible for a return on 4 August.
That would likely see him miss the first leg of the Europa League third qualifying round on 6 August, but the Bears have not yet found out their opponent for that.
If Rudi Garcia's side make it to the final on 19 July, that would see Raskin out until 9 August.
He would likely miss the second league match against Hibernian too, as that is the same date as when he would return.