Thelo Aasgaard’s future at Rangers looked uncertain not long ago, but Derek McInnes may already be changing that picture. A tactical tweak from the new Rangers manager could help keep the 24-year-old at Ibrox beyond the summer, with the attacker now looking sharper in pre-season and likely to be used more often out wide in the coming weeks.
That matters because Aasgaard’s first season at Rangers was productive even if it did not fully click. Last season, Danny Rohl did not get the best out of him, but Aasgaard still managed eight goals and five assists in 48 appearances. Those numbers suggest there is value to unlock, especially if McInnes finds a role that suits him better.
A wider role could change the outlook
McInnes is willing to try a setup with one narrower, almost false winger, and that could open the door for Aasgaard to stay. Rather than forcing him into a role that does not suit him, Rangers may use his movement and attacking instincts from the flank. The idea is simple: if the system gets the best from him, then the conversation about his future changes quickly.
There is also a wider context around Rangers’ attack. Oliver Antman has already been shown the door and Nedim Bajrami is expected to be sold, so the Light Blues may be facing more turnover in the attacking group. In that environment, a player who has already delivered eight goals and five assists becomes more important, not less.
Adaptation is another factor. Players often need time to settle at new clubs, especially when they have moved from another country. Aasgaard falls into that category, and a stronger pre-season under McInnes could be the sign that the adjustment period is starting to end.
For now, the clearest takeaway is that Aasgaard’s Rangers story is not settled. He may still be a player with an uncertain future, but a changed tactical approach could keep him at Ibrox beyond the summer.
