Kenny Miller has claimed that Nico Raskin is Rangers' answer to Celtic captain Callum McGregor.

The Belgian was one of Michael Beale's first signings when he took over as Ibrox boss and he has already become an instant hit with supporters.

Miller is a big fan of the 22-year-old and he rates him alongside Hoops skipper McGregor who has been a key figure of the club's success in recent seasons.

Writing in the Daily Record, Miller said: "It’s still early days for Nico Raskin.

"And when it comes to winning trophies at Rangers – he’s still got it all to prove. But I reckon this kid is the real deal. I saw enough from the young Belgian last season when he arrived from Standard Liege to impress me. And his little cameo in Tuesday’s friendly match against Newcastle only confirmed what I’ve always thought.

"Raskin could be Rangers’ very own version of Callum McGregor. It’s the way he controls and influences games like the Celtic captain. Listen, he’s got a lot of catching up to do to match McGregor’s achievements. He’ll need to win trophy after trophy at Ibrox – but that’s not about that right now.

"With Raskin, it’s about the positive impact he could have on this Rangers team. When he came on against Newcastle, he was sensational. The game went up a level. Look at his first-time pass round the corner to a team-mate, who drove at Newcastle’s back line.

"That’s what this boy has got. He isn’t just neat and tidy and capable of operating in tight situations. He’s also got a vision and awareness to play forward passes through the lines early. And that’s the key when you play in that position. You have to be ahead of the game and Raskin is, believe me.

"You also see him dribbling past players. He isn’t rapid but is so comfortable on the ball and has great balance. He’s got that low centre of gravity that allows him to sidestep pressure and take out opponents.

"That’s a trait that Michael Beale likes in his midfielders. He’s only 22 but I think Raskin is his best midfielder right now. He looks like the full package and he could be the controller of that Rangers team. You only need to look at McGregor to see how important that role is. Callum is the driving force and the heartbeat of Celtic’s team. He is the guy who drives them, he’s the influencer.

"And I genuinely believe Raskin could mirror that at Ibrox. The great thing about him is that when he came in, he impacted games from the off. He wasn’t someone who needed six months or a year to settle in, which some players do need at the Old Firm, by the way. So far, Raskin has been outstanding . At a young age, he’s pointing, organising, trying to control this Rangers team and the game."