Rangers manager believes Thelo Aasgaard can finally deliver
Rangers manager Derek McInnes has publicly backed midfielder Thelo Aasgaard to fulfil his £5 million potential this season. The 24-year-old returned early from international duty to score the decisive penalty in Rangers’ 2-1 Europa Conference League win over St Etienne on July 22, 2026.
What the gaffer said
McInnes praised Aasgaard’s technique and physique but admitted inconsistency dogged the Norwegian last term. “He’s so smooth and looks every part a footballer - the size, the technique, the speed,” McInnes told reporters. “We just need to get him at his best week in, week out.” The manager singled out Aasgaard and others for failing to show regular consistency in 2025-26, blaming the club’s demands and the players’ youth.
The context behind the push
Chairman Andrew Cavenagh signalled a leadership refresh and a stronger spine at the club’s AGM in May 2026. McInnes echoed that aim, insisting Aasgaard must “fight through” early-season jitters to prove his mettle. “Sometimes in a technical game these things are easier,” he added. “Other times, when it’s scrappy, you’ve got to dig deep.”
The road ahead
McInnes also criticised Rangers’ “really quiet” first-half display against St Etienne, urging unity after a disjointed start. He stressed the need for resilience, warning: “Football isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.” With pre-season friendlies and Europa Conference ties looming, Aasgaard faces a decisive window to justify his price tag and secure a regular starting berth under McInnes.
