Kris Boyd highlights Rangers’ hidden midfield trio strength as secret weapon in crucial Premiership campaign
Kris Boyd has turned the spotlight on Rangers’ emerging midfield trio Nicolas Raskin, Connor Barron and Mohamed Diomandé arguing their blend of energy, technique and physicality could prove the club’s “secret weapon” as the title race tightens.
Boyd’s comments add to a chorus of voices suggesting Rangers’ engine room is now a genuine match-winner rather than simply squad depth. 
Raskin, the Belgian who arrived at Ibrox in January 2023, provides composed ball progression and an eye for the pass that helps Rangers control games from the middle of the park. His trajectory from Standard Liège to Rangers has seen the 24-year-old establish himself as a reliable central option capable of linking defence and attack. 
Young Scot Connor Barron brings energy and press resistance to the unit. A product of the Scottish system who moved to Rangers after coming through Aberdeen, Barron’s reading of the game and willingness to cover ground make him an ideal partner in a three-man midfield able to break up play and quickly recycle possession. His club and international progress underline his rapid development. 
Mohamed Diomandé adds the physical bite and forward momentum that completes the trio. Signed from FC Nordsjælland on a deal that became permanent during 2024, the Ivorian midfielder has impressed with driving runs, powerful ball recoveries and an eye for goal traits that have helped Rangers at key moments this season. Recent squad news also suggests Diomandé’s availability through international windows has been a boost to manager Danny Rohl’s plans. 
Tactically, Boyd’s assessment is simple: when Raskin’s technique, Barron’s work-rate and Diomandé’s dynamism operate in sync, Rangers win midfield battles and games. That balance allows full-backs to push, attackers to receive cleaner service and the defence to remain compact. Opponents who focus solely on the front line risk being undone by the middle of the park. 
Rangers’ manager has rotated his midfield at times this season, but the trio’s increasing minutes together have produced encouraging results. Analysts say the combination suits the demands of the Scottish Premiership where physical duels and quick transitions decide ties and could be especially useful in the congested winter schedule. 
What remains crucial for Rangers is consistency. Boyd and other pundits have repeatedly urged the club to maintain focus and avoid complacency, warning that squad depth must be matched by mental resilience as title contenders press for points. If Raskin, Barron and Diomandé can sustain form and fitness, they may yet vindicate Boyd’s claim and become the engine that drives Rangers’ Premiership charge. 
