Ferguson calls for Rohl to haul off Rangers player at HT, there's an obvious replacement

Rangers are looking to keep their title hopes alive against Dundee United, but Thelo Aasgaard has left Derek Ferguson frustrated.

The Gers have the chance to go above Hearts in the table with a win at Ibrox, and thanks to goals by Ryan Naderi and Dujon Sterling in the opening first half, they could very well go on to do that.

Even if Hearts do have a game in hand, it would pile pressure on the Jam Tarts.

In the G51 outfits’ quest, Aasgaard was handed a rare start by manager Danny Rohl, but his appearance has not been as fruitful as the German would like.

However, as Aasgaard struggled to make an impact in Rangers’ game against Dundee United, former midfielder Ferguson urged Rohl to make a decision.

What did Derek Ferguson say about Thelo Aasgaard in Rangers vs Dundee United?

Aasgaard has been frustrating to watch against Dundee United as his yellow card in the 16th minute brings a grimace each time he battles for the ball.

The 23-year-old is walking on a tightrope, and that could force Rohl into making a second-half change. One that Ferguson believes should be made.

Ferguson said: “Danny Rohl has an issue here. Aasgaard is devoid of confidence and not played well. We’re only 23 minutes in but you have to make big decisions.

“He’s on a yellow and Rangers are being outfought in the middle of the park. They need a Diomande. Something’s got to give.”

Aasgaard did play a key role in Rangers’ opening goal of the game, with his saved shot landing in the path of Naderi.

However, with the Norwegian on a yellow card, Rohl simply cannot risk the midfielder getting sent off. That one moment does not take away from the general poor performance he has displayed at Ibrox.

The introduction of Mohamed Diomande could provide the Bears with an extra level of stability and work rate in the middle. Out of Rohl’s options, he is the obvious substitute.

Thelo Aasgaard is fighting for Rangers role

Since arriving at Rangers, Aasgaard has not done enough to warrant him regular minutes under Rohl, and with the World Cup on the horizon, you would expect the Norwegian to push to make the squad.

Throughout the campaign, Rohl has only afforded Aasgaard an average of 53 minutes per appearance in the Scottish Premiership.

The attacking midfielder has provided seven goal contributions so far, placing him fifth among his teammates.

While he has showcased the ability to produce a solid output, his general level of play has not warranted him continuing in the second half against Dundee United.

The yellow card will certainly not help him make his case, and after his display today at Ibrox, he will have to fight to gain another start.

Mind games in the Scottish title race have started, and Rohl must block out the noise and make the right decisions with his squad moving forward.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.