Thelo Aasgaard is targeting a leadership role at Rangers this season after a confidence-boosting World Cup campaign with Norway. The midfielder, who scored in the season's opening 1-1 draw with Dundee United, told the Daily Record this week that he has returned to Ibrox a more determined player.
Aasgaard joined Rangers from Luton Town for a reported £3.5 million last summer but struggled for consistency under previous managers Russell Martin and Danny Rohl. He described his first year in Glasgow as "character building" and admitted there were periods where he failed to make the desired impact. His fortunes changed after representing Norway at the World Cup in America, where he scored against France in the group stage.
What did Aasgaard learn from the World Cup?
Training and playing alongside elite internationals raised his personal standards. Aasgaard said he consciously tried to bring that elevated quality back to Rangers during pre-season. He cut his summer break short to report early to new manager Derek McInnes, aiming to prove he deserves a regular starting spot. "I want to take some responsibility this year, to be the man," Aasgaard stated. The 24-year-old believes evidence from good performances for previous clubs and on the world stage supports his readiness for a bigger role.
How has his relationship with the manager changed?
McInnes has praised Aasgaard's commitment and immediately instilled belief in the player. The manager has encouraged him to play with freedom and shoulder responsibility in advanced areas where he can hurt opponents. "He wants me to play with freedom and take that responsibility on my shoulders, which is great for me," Aasgaard explained. This clear tactical directive contrasts with his more peripheral status last season and appears key to unlocking his potential. Rangers' current squad shows a need for creative players in the final third, a gap Aasgaard is eager to fill.
What does this mean for Rangers' season?
Aasgaard's emergence as a more vocal and confident figure comes at an important time. With several experienced players having left the club and more departures possible before the transfer window closes, there is a vacuum for on-pitch leaders. His performance against Dundee United, where he was Rangers' most dangerous attacker, offers a positive sign. The club is actively seeking to add more wingers and attacking threats, which Aasgaard welcomes as necessary competition. "You need people pushing you," he said, acknowledging that high-intensity training under McInnes is already driving standards.
Looking at the early standings, every point is vital, making contributions from players like Aasgaard essential. His renewed mindset, forged from a tough first year and a successful international summer, could be a significant asset. If he maintains the form shown at Tannadice, he will be a central figure as Rangers aims to improve on last season's league position. Fans can track his and the team's progress through the season on our stats page.
