NafisaNeil McCann was quick to praise James Tavernier as Rangers took the lead against Dundee.
Rangers have travelled to face Dundee at Dens Park on Sunday and go in at the break with a 2-0 lead.
Danny Rohl couldn’t have hoped for a better start, especially after Rangers fell to defeat against Roma in mid-week frustration at Ibrox.
Despite the injury worries surrounding Raskin at Rangers, the Belgium international rose highest from a corner to score the opener before Mikey Moore made it two.
Raskin took his goal with aplomb, not that this bothered McCann, as he took more interest in the set-piece delivery from Tavernier rather than the header.
James Tavernier takes Rangers headlines after Nico Raskin goal
Tavernier has faced criticism at Rangers in recent weeks and months, as the captain has failed to lead by example in a struggling Govan outfit.
The Englishman did look much-improved against Dundee with his influence down the right-hand side, allowing plenty of room for Moore down the flanks.
The extra sense of positivity surrounding his performance was reflected in the opening 10 minutes in DD3 after he provided an assist for Raskin.
His delivery found Belgian perfectly as he dropped into a pocket of space before looping a header into the far corner.
McCann was impressed by the header, but was quick to hand Tavernier the plaudits after what was a pinpoint delivery into the box.
Speaking on Sky Sports Football, he said: “First of all, let’s compliment the ball from Tavernier. It’s a wicked cross, brilliant delivery with pace and precision.
“Nico Raskin, it’s unopposed, he’s one of the biggest threats. He’s really good in the air, he doesn’t look the biggest, but he’s got a brilliant leap and it’s a superb header.
“Great delivery and a wonderful goal from Nico Raskin.“
Tavernier put in positive first-half shift vs Dundee
The 34-year-old has continued to be a regular for the Light Blues even with the introduction of Rohl as head coach.
The German has backed the skipper and afforded him a fluid role as a right-sided player in both a back three and a back four so far.
That ability to float along the defensive line has worked to positive effect, with Tavernier still able to clock up 17 passes in the first half, while also putting in a positive defensive shift.
The Englishman completed five defensive actions and also won four ground duels, achieving a 100 per cent win rate in aerial duels at Dens.
Rohl will be hopeful that this level of performance can continue as he looks to his captain to set the standards for the Gers.
Nafisa
Mustapha Sheidu