Rohl can unearth his own Osmand by finally unleashing Rangers’ “Boy Wonder”

It’s hard not to feel a touch of sympathy for Rangers head coach Danny Rohl, who watched his side concede three goals for the second time in four matches — this time after extra time.

The Ibrox giants fell 3–1 to Celtic at Hampden Park in the League Cup semi-final on Sunday. Yet, considering they were 1–0 down and reduced to ten men, forcing the match into extra time was an achievement in itself.

Rohl, who took over from Russell Martin, has already experienced a rollercoaster start to life in Glasgow — two wins and two defeats from his opening four games. While Sunday’s loss will sting, he can take pride in his players’ resilience. However, fatigue clearly caught up with them in extra time, as shown by the sluggish defending that allowed Callum Osmand to score his first Celtic goal.

Osmand’s breakthrough — in just his second senior appearance under interim boss Martin O’Neill — perfectly illustrates how a fresh perspective can uncover hidden talent. It’s a reminder for Rohl to look within the Rangers academy for untapped potential.

The Academy Dilemma at Ibrox

Rangers face a worrying issue when it comes to their youth development system. The club has produced talented players, but few have flourished in the first team before moving elsewhere.

The five most valuable players to emerge from the Rangers academy all now play for other clubs — and none made more than 55 senior appearances for the Gers before departing. Only Nathan Patterson and Billy Gilmour are valued above £5 million, suggesting that the club isn’t doing enough to nurture or retain high-value prospects.

Another key problem appears to be the lack of a clear pathway to first-team football. At Celtic, Osmand’s rise proves how opportunity can transform potential into performance.

Had Brendan Rodgers remained in charge and continued to overlook him, the young striker’s progress could have stalled. Instead, O’Neill’s willingness to trust youth gave him the platform to shine.

Rohl now faces a similar choice — and Findlay Curtis could be his version of Osmand.

Why Rohl Should Trust Findlay Curtis

The 19-year-old academy graduate impressed early this season under Russell Martin, notably scoring a superb first goal for the club against Panathinaikos. However, despite that bright start, Curtis has been largely sidelined since, failing to start another match in any competition.

Still, his impact off the bench has been impressive. Curtis has three goals in ten appearances this season, despite starting only twice. According to Transfermarkt, only James Tavernier (6) and Djeidi Gassama (5) have scored more for Rangers in all competitions — a remarkable feat for a teenager with limited minutes.

He’s averaging a goal every 49 minutes in the Premiership, highlighting his effectiveness whenever he’s called upon. His performances for the B team — four goals and three assists in eight games — further underline his potential.

Yet, like many academy players before him, Curtis hasn’t been rewarded with consistent first-team opportunities. That needs to change.

Rohl must be brave enough to trust youth and hand Curtis the chance to prove himself as a regular starter. The winger’s versatility, ability to play on either flank, and natural attacking instinct make him a valuable weapon for a side that’s been searching for creativity..

Celtic’s Osmand showed what can happen when a young player is finally given a chance to shine — and Rangers should take note. If Rohl gives Curtis that same opportunity, he could soon discover a homegrown star capable of lighting up Ibrox.