“I’ve just tried to bring that quality from my six weeks out in America” – Thelo Aasgaard reflects on impressive post-World Cup form

The Norwegian international made an impressive return from the World Cup, scoring the equaliser in Rangers’ opening-day draw at Tannadice. Thelo Aasgaard certainly has quality in his boots. However last season, that quality was only shown in flashes. From stunning free-kicks to moments of individual brilliance, the Norwegian international showed glimpses of his true worth under former bosses Russell Martin and Danny Rohl, but the consistency wasn’t enough. And going into the summer transfer window, many Rangers fans would have called it quits with Aasgaard after an underwhelming campaign. But that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore. A revitalised Aasgaard has emerged in previous weeks. Promising performances against both Saint-Etienne and West Ham in pre-season earned him a well-deserved start at Tannadice on Friday evening. In a flat Rangers performance, he was the only real spark that Rangers had the whole match, resulting in the Norwegian having to salvage an equaliser for Derek McInnes’ side. His recent rebirth didn’t begin at Tannadice, though. A tidy finish against France in the recent World Cup has certainly given the midfielder a massive boost coming into the new season. Speaking after the match, Aasgaard said: “I’ve just tried to bring that quality from my six weeks out in America. “I trained with some really good players every day (at the World Cup) and that raises your standards. “So, I’ve tried to bring that to pre-season, and I feel like I’ve done that. I want to take some responsibility this year, to be the man. Hopefully I can do that. “Playing among the best players in the world with Norway, having a good performance at the World Cup, that did wonders for my confidence. “So, I’ve tried to bring that to Rangers and I’m feeling really good.” Aasgaard cut his post-World Cup holiday short to re-join with the team early, determined to prove a point to new boss McInnes. And if his recent showings are anything to go with, it certainly looks like he is capable of becoming a key player rather than being there to add up the numbers.  

Scottish Premiership Matchday 1 Referees Confirmed

The SFA have today announced the officials who will referee the opening six fixtures of the Premiership calendar. The referees are as follows: Celtic v Dundee – Matthew MacDermid St Johnstone v Kilmarnock – John Beaton Falkirk v St Mirren – Duncan Nicolson Hibernian v Motherwell – Steven McLean Dundee United v Rangers – Nick Walsh Aberdeen v Hearts – David Dickinson With the appointments now confirmed, the stage is set for the opening fixtures of the 26/27 campaign. It all starts on Friday evening as Dundee United take on Rangers.    

Rangers Confirm the Signing of Vanja Dragojevic from Partizan Belgrade

The highly rated youngster becomes Rangers’ seventh signing of the summer as Derek McInnes’ looks to strengthen his squad heading into the opening game of the season. The 20-year-old joins the club on a deal worth to be approximately in the excess of £4 million. Rangers have tied the youngster down to a four-year-deal with the option of an extra 12 months. The Serbian was the captain of Partizan last season, aged only 19-years-old, and has already been called up to the national team. The deal was almost certainly confirmed by McInnes last night after Rangers’ recent friendly match against Saint-Etienne. McInnes said: “We are looking quite close to completing one or two things. “I certainly think it’ll be at least two in for Sunday’s game and hopefully another one next week.” This was after Dragojevic was spotted online with a Rangers cake decorated with the colours of the club earlier on in the week. He then addressed the cake situation after completing his move to the Glasgow club. Speaking to Rangers TV, he said: “We made a dinner for my whole family because I was going to Rangers, and that was a surprise. “I didn’t know. My friend made this, and everyone was there. It was a little emotional. Everyone was happy, but at the same time sad.” Rangers have already added midfield firepower to their squad with the addition of Cammy Devlin and Dan Neil, making Dragojevic the third addition as Nico Raskin looks likely to depart before the end of the window.

Everything Rangers supporters need to know about Europa League opponents Jagiellonia Białystok

Rangers face Jagiellonia Białystok in the Europa League third qualifying phase. Here is everything you need to know about the Polish side. Jagiellonia Białystok, who play in the Ekstraklasa league in Poland, finished third out of 16 teams last season, granting them a place in the third qualifying stage of the Europa League. Jagiellonia are ranked 86th in the UEFA club coefficient rankings. Their top scorer last season Afimico Pululu left the club earlier in the summer following the expiration of his contract. But Spanish veteran, Jesus Imaz scored 18 times last campaign. They get back to league action on Saturday, giving them two competitive matches before they host Rangers at the Chorten Arena on the 6th of August. The Chorten Arena hosts just over 22,000 people. However, it is well-known for its hostile atmosphere. Jagiellonia have only lost twice at home in Europe over the past two seasons. The club’s most successful season came in the 2023/24 campaign, when they won the Ekstraklasa for the first time. The Polish side have advanced to the later stages in the Europa Conference League in the last two seasons. In 2025 they progressed all the way to the Quarter-Finals, where they were knocked out by Spanish side Real Betis. Last year however, they were dispatched by Fiorentina in the knock-out play off stages. It’s a fair journey for Derek McIness’ men, with Białystok being approximately 1500 miles from Glasgow. It’s also around a two-hour coach trip from the capital city Warsaw, where most supporters and the team will likely travel too. The match is over two-legs, with the second-leg being played at Ibrox the following Thursday.  

My World Cup Team Of The Tournament

With the World Cup now complete, here are the 11 players that have earned a place in my Team of the Tournament. GK – Vozinha The Veteran goalkeeper announced himself in this year’s World Cup after a series of outstanding performances. Most notably against eventual winner’s Spain, where he kept a clean sheet to earn a vital point against a truly phenomenal side. Against all odds, Cape Verde progressed to the Round of 32, where they pushed eventual runners-up Argentina to extra-time. Despite losing 3-2, Vozinha and Cape Verde made a statement in their performances across the campaign. RB – Pedro Porro Six appearances, two goals, five clean-sheets, Pedro Porro was fantastic in Spain’s indestructible defence. After a poor season with Spurs, the Spanish full-back has showed his real quality in this year’s World Cup, resulting in going back home with the trophy. CB – Pau Cubarsi The Young Player of the Tournament award was well deserved for the Spanish youngster. After eight appearances, Cubarsi and Spain accumulated seven clean sheets across the tournament, as well as only conceding one goal throughout their successful campaign. CB – Aymeric Laporte Alongside Cubarsi, Laporte was superb throughout the tournament. His experience and composure helped organise Spain during the biggest moments of the tournament, which led to their success in the final. LB – Marc Cucurella An all-Spanish defence highlights how outstanding Spain were in defence and throughout the whole tournament. Cucurella wasn’t just reliable at the back but also was a huge presence in attack. The newly signed Real Madrid player scored three goals during his campaign and gave Spain great attacking outlets from the left hand-side of the pitch. CDM – Rodri Rodri, the heartbeat of Spain’s midfield. With a World Cup, Euros, Champions League and Ballon d’Or to his name, Rodri has truly completed football. His ability to control the game and pick-out passes which are simply majestic to the eye, shows why he is the official Player of the Tournament. CM – Jude Bellingham Bellingham was England’s driving force throughout the tournament. Seven goals and one assist in eight games, alongside his ability to show up in the big moments, shows how vital he is to England. CM – Michael Olise Olise broke the assist record with an outstanding eight assists throughout his campaign. The previous record was set by the great Pele in the 1970 World Cup, with six assists. It wasn’t just the assists that made Olise shine, his quality on the ball was world-class throughout the tournament. LW – Kylian Mbappe The tournaments top goal-scorer. Mbappe’s 22 goals in 22 World Cup appearances saw the French superstar become the all-time leading goal-scorer after his brace against England. A fantastic tournament from the French captain, who once again showcased his world-class ability on the biggest stage. RW – Lionel Messi At 39-years-old, it may well be the last dance at a World Cup for Messi. However, if it is to be, he will go out with a World Cup trophy and 21 goals to his name across his career in the competition. Despite the heartbreak in the final, the Argentinian magician demonstrated his quality once again with 12 goal contributions and moments of brilliance that seemed impossible. ST – Erling Haaland Haaland made a statement at his first World Cup. It was Norway’s first appearance at the tournament since 1998, and they made it one to remember. From the row celebrations to knocking out five-time winner’s Brazil, Haaland was the main man throughout it all. Seven goals in five games for Haaland highlighted why he is regarded as one of the best strikers in world football.

World Cup 2026: Round of 32 Review

Another fascinating week of World Cup action comes to a close, here are some of the biggest talking points from the round-of-32. Best Player: Kylian Mbappe The French superstar lit up the round-of-32 with a brace and 3-0 win against Sweden to send his side through to the last 16. It puts Mbappe to five goals for the competition and 18 in total for all World Cup’s. He stands two goals behind Messi who extended his tally to 20 after scoring in the early hours of this morning against Cape Verde. France take on Paraguay this evening in their hope to reach the quarter-finals. And with the way Les Blues are performing at this moment in time, it’s difficult to see any team stopping them any time soon. Shock Exit: Germany Germany made an early exit home after a shock defeat to Paraguay on penalties. The Germans missed three out of six penalties, which led to former boss Julian Nagelsmann stepping down from his position in charge. German legend Jurgen Klopp is the front-runner to get the job. However, if he is successful will he be able to bring back German glory just like 2014? Dark Horses: Mexico Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 to put themselves through to the last 16, where they take on England in the famous Azteca stadium in the early hours of Monday morning. Mexico haven’t conceded a goal throughout this tournament and have only lost two games in 89 competitive appearances at the Azteca. England’s Thomas Tuchel said it will be “impossible” to surmount the “big disadvantage” of the Azteca, which is around 7,220 feet above sea level. This is after England’s two air-conditioned matches at the Dallas and Atlanta stadium. An intimidating arena with the Mexico fans in full voice sets up a tasty encounter in Mexico City.

Former England defender Stuart Pearce slams England winger who ‘gave up’ during DR Congo win

England were 16 minutes away from a shock World Cup exit before a Harry Kane double in quick succession secured their place in the last 16. However, Stuart Pearce criticised Noni Madueke’s mindset. Madueke started England’s Round-of-32 clash against DR Congo, but was hooked just before the second hydration break for Arsenal colleague Bukayo Saka after a poor display on the right wing. Thomas Tuchel had to make immediate changes to reignite an England squad who were heading home after being 1-0 down to DR Congo. Marcus Rashford was replaced by Anthony Gordron, who played a vital role in both of England’s goals, and Saka stepped in for Madueke. Shortly after Madueke left the pitch, Stuart Pearce confessed he was ‘disappointed’ with the Premier League winner’s performance. On talkSPORT’s World Cup GameDay Live, Pearce said: “I’ve got to say I’m really disappointed with Madueke. “Outstanding with him in the first half, but in the second half, I think he took the easy option, got tired and gave up.” However, moments later Tuchel’s substitutions worked a treat. A delightful cross from Anthony Gordon left Harry Kane in a dangerous position, as his powerful header left Lionel Mpasi with no chance in the DR Congo goal. Just 10 minutes later, Gordon and Kane combined which doubled England’s scoring for the evening and kept the Three Lions in the tournament after what was a shaky 75 minutes prior to the two goals. England face Mexico in the famous Azteca in the Round-of-16 on early Monday morning.  

Rangers confirm fifth summer signing as Dan Neil joins from Sunderland

Rangers have continued their busy summer rebuild as Dan Neil joins from Sunderland on a three-year contract. Neil spent the second half of last season on loan to Ipswich, making 16 appearances and assisting the Tractor Boys to secure promotion back to the top-flight. Neil made 201 appearances for boyhood-club Sunderland, winning the EFL trophy and gaining promotion to the Premier League during his time. Unfortunately, Neil struggled to find game time in the top-flight, which led to his successful loan at Ipswich. After his move to Ibrox, Neil said: “It is a new chapter for myself. “I have played for Sunderland for a number of years and the weight and expectation of the fans to win every week and the feeling of it making or breaking people’s weekends is something that drives me. “I’ve spoken to many people who have been here and they said it’s a very similar feeling. And as a character and a person, that really drives me to give 110 per cent day in and day out, and I need that in my career.” It’s Rangers’ fifth signing already for the season, as they look to rebuild their squad heading into the opening fixture on the 31st of July. Speaking after the signing of Neil, McInnes said: “I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Dan to the club. He will be an excellent addition to our squad. “He is a technically gifted midfielder who is strong in possession, can contribute goals and brings tremendous energy to the team. “At 24, we are signing a player who is hungry and ambitious, but who already possesses significant experience and leadership qualities, having captained Sunderland to promotion to the Premier League in 2025. “I’m really looking forward to working with Dan throughout pre-season as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”

Ben Godfrey joins Rangers on season-long loan deal from Atalanta

Rangers have confirmed their third signing of the summer, with former Everton centre-back Ben Godfrey joining on a loan deal from Atalanta. Godfrey, formerly of Norwich and Everton, has today completed a loan move to Ibrox which includes an option to buy. It’s new boss Derek McInnes’ second signing alongside a return from Ross McCrorie. Godfrey was part of Daniel Farke’s side who were promoted to the Premier League in 2019, which led to the Englishman leaving The Canaries for Everton in the following season for a deal worth around £25 million. After signing for Atalanta in 2024, Godfrey has struggled for game time. He has been on three loans prior to signing for Rangers, including Ipswich Town, Sheffield United and most recently Danish side Brondby, which he made just 12 appearances. After signing for Rangers, Godfrey said: “I am buzzing, I am really happy to be here. “I know the size of the club, so it is a massive honour to be wearing the shirt this season, and I can’t wait to get started. “I am looking forward to meeting the boys and hopefully helping this club achieve what it deserves, which is silverware and exciting times.” Godfrey has also accumulated two caps for the England national team. McInnes highlighted the experience Godfrey will bring, as well as the level and quality he has played at during his career. McInnes said: “He’s played in the Premier League, been involved with England, and brings a lot of experience with him. “He’s a strong, athletic defender with good qualities both on and off the ball, and we believe he can add a lot to the squad.” Godfrey will wear the number four shirt for Rangers.

World Cup 2026: Group Stage Review

From surprise packages to early exits, the group stage has already provided plenty of unforgettable moments. Here are some of the biggest stories from the 2026 World Cup so far. Player of the group stage: Lionel Messi The Argentinean superstar has already set this World Cup alight. With a staggering six goals in three appearances, Messi made himself the official all-time Fifa World Cup top-goalscorer, with a total of 19 goals during seven World Cup campaigns. Messi also became the first ever player to score in seven consecutive World Cup’s. With a hat-trick in the opening fixture against Algeria, a brace against Austria and a magic free-kick to seal the group stage off against Jordan. Messi has been a monumental figure once again in Argentina’s hunt for back-to-back World Cup trophies. Biggest disappointment: Turkey One of the tournament’s “Dark Horses” suffered an early exit home after a disastrous group stage campaign. Back-to-back defeats to Australia and Paraguay sent Turkey home premature, failing to score in both fixtures. A consolation win over host nation USA wasn’t enough to send Turkey through to the knockout stages. A World Cup to forget for wonderkid Arda Guler and Turkey. Surprise package: Cape Verde Cape Verde have been standout performers during the World Cup so far. Defying the odds, the Island Nation have reached the knockout stages staying undefeated whilst taking points off both Spain and Uruguay. Cape Verde also achieved two clean sheets during the group stage period. Goalkeeper Vozinha has made the headlines after his remarkable performance against Spain in the opening fixture. He now faces reigning champions Argentina in the round of 32 on Friday evening. Will the 40-year-old stopper be able to repeat his historic achievement against Argentina’s attacking talent? Early front-runners: France Les Bleus have started their World Cup campaign strongly. Wins over Senegal, Iraq and Norway left France with nine points out of nine and a perfect start to complete their group stage. With 10 goals scored in three games and superstars Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and many more in outstanding form. France have established themselves as a major threat to be at the MetLife Stadium on July 19th for the final, hoping to add a third World Cup to their collection.