Danny Röhl has assured Rangers supporters that highly rated forward Finlay Curtis remains firmly in his long-term plans, despite calls from fans to see the teenager given more minutes at senior level.
The 19-year-old, who has scored prolifically at youth level and has notched up several first-team goals early in his senior career, has become a persistent topic of debate as Rangers continue to struggle for goals and creativity in the final third.
Röhl was asked directly in the post-match press conference why Curtis has not featured more frequently.
His response was calm, clear and decisive: “He will get his opportunity.”
The German coach explained that Curtis missed a significant chunk of time during the international break due to injury - a setback that cost him valuable training and match rhythm.
“He was injured for ten days and now he must work hard,” Röhl said, adding that the youngster’s lack of recent minutes is not reflective of his potential or attitude.
Importantly, Röhl revealed that he held a private meeting with Curtis just days earlier to outline his expectations and reassure the young forward about his development path.
He said: “I’m very clear with him, very honest.
“He will get his chance and it’s just about when.”
Röhl’s measured approach contrasts with the urgency of supporters eager to see fresh energy and unpredictability injected into the attack.
But the head coach stressed that exposure must come at the right time, not simply to appease fans.
He emphasised that young players must be both physically ready and tactically aligned before being thrust into high-pressure situations:
He said: “If I see he’s ready, I’ll put him on. That’s the rule.”
This comes after Rangers did not use either Curtis or Lyall Cameron as options from the bench during last night's 1-1 draw with Braga in the UEFA Europa League – instead opting for the uninspiring Thelo Aasgaard and ineffectual Bojan Miovski.
Curtis has already shown glimpses of his ability early in the season with goals against Panathinaikos and St Mirren, combining sharp movement with a natural striker’s instinct from the flanks.
Röhl acknowledged this but warned that the demands at Rangers go beyond talent alone and players must withstand scrutiny, pressure and the need for instant impact.
The coach also suggested Curtis is progressing well in training, noting that his attitude and application have earned respect within the squad.
For supporters, Röhl’s message is both reassurance and challenge. Curtis is coming and will get his chance but the timing must be managed carefully.