View: Hot-and-cold Rangers ace given all the motivation he needs as World Cup door left open

Rangers striker Youssef Chermiti would have felt disappointed to miss out on Portugal’s latest international squad ahead of the World Cup, but not all hope is lost.

Chermiti has been inconsistent for the Gers this campaign, with the 21-year-old’s contributions coming in spurts of purple patches.

It has not been ideal for both the Bears and the forward, who has now paid the price on the international stage.

The Rangers striker has yet to make an appearance for the Portuguese national squad during his career.

However, after Roberto Martinez’ latest comments, Chermiti must be looking to end the season strong across Rangers’ remaining games, as he eyes the World Cup.

What did Roberto Martinez say about Youssef Chermiti’s World Cup chances?

Portugal manager Martinez has provided hope to Chermiti that his World Cup dream is not over yet, despite his latest snub.

The G51 outfits number nine is still awaiting his first international cap after player 42 times for the Portugal youth squads.

Speaking after selecting his squad for the March internationals on Friday, Martinez said: “The players I have previously mentioned who are not in the squad this time can still dream.

“Yes, it will be difficult for someone to get in now – but it’s still possible.”

Back at the start of March, Chermiti was one of those name-dropped by Martinez, planting hope he could finally make his national team debut.

However, the Gers forward will need to keep working and improving to have any chance of being on the plane to North America in June.

Instead, he will have to continue working with the under-21s squad in which he has been called up for.

Chermiti’s motivation could be Rangers’ benefit

Chermiti’s Portugal snub could put fire into the belly of the 21-year-old, who will now surely work his socks off to make the official World Cup squad.

If Chermiti can score the goals to propel Rangers towards the title, then Martinez would certainly have to ponder over whether to include the striker in his plans.

However, if he continues at the rate he is currently playing at, with just patches of good form, and only against certain opposition, then he will have a minimal chance of impressing Martinez.

With that motivation likely to be instilled into Chermiti, Rangers will be hoping it comes to their benefit.

With the Scottish Premiership league split just around the corner, the crucial stages of the season could decide the striker’s World Cup hopes.

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