REVEALED: Derek mcinnes explains why nico raskin has been benched versus fk jablonec | Vintage Vibes

🎙️ Derek McInnes spoke to @RangersTV ahead of tonight’s UEFA Conference League play-off first leg against FK Jablonec at Ibrox.#UECL pic.twitter.com/bg5Moo77yh

— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) August 20, 2026

Because of this, Raskin's injury has given Dan Neil a starting opportunity. His manager said: "Nico is managing an ankle injury, and he needed an injection after the game on Sunday.

"It gives him a little bit of time to recover, and it gives Dan the opportunity to play."

Rangers go into the play-off with renewed confidence following Sunday's commanding victory. The manager said: "The five-goal victory on Sunday gave the group a significant boost in confidence.

"We showed a strong attacking threat and controlled the game consistently, and that is what we want to replicate in the playoff."

Defender Kosta Nedeljkovic is also expected to be a fresh choice, having impressed with his attitude. "He has enthusiasm, energy and confidence," the manager said.

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"He gives us a different option in that area of the pitch and has shown a real desire to contribute to the club."

However, the manager acknowledges that Jablonec will be a different challenge. The Czech team can switch between a four- and five-man defence and have started their domestic season strongly.

McInnes added, "They are tactically flexible. They can play with a back four or a back five, and they have good individual players.

"They have started the season well, so we need to dictate the tempo and make sure we disrupt their confidence."