When Oliver Antman joined Rangers in the summer of 2025, expectations were high. The Finnish winger arrived with a reputation for flair, pace, and direct attacking play, qualities many believed would strengthen the Ibrox attack.
However, by March 2026, the 24-year-old had struggled to make a consistent impact in the Scottish Premiership. Antman registered just one goal and two assists in 13 league appearances (569 minutes), with two of those contributions coming in a single dominant win over Kilmarnock.
Under head coach Danny Rohl, who took charge in October 2025, Antman found himself on the fringes of the squad. A lack of confidence, inconsistent dribbling, and limited end product led to growing doubts over whether the €4 million signing would prove to be a success.
International Break Sparks Revival
The international break may have provided the turning point Antman needed.
On March 27, 2026, he started for Finland in a FIFA Series friendly against New Zealand at Eden Park. Finland secured a comfortable 2-0 victory, with goals from Joel Pohjanpalo and Jaakko Oksanen.
Antman played 67 minutes before being substituted and delivered one of his most composed performances in recent months.
Performance Highlights
- 67 minutes played
- 2 shots (1 on target)
- 1 chance created
- 88% passing accuracy
- 1 successful dribble
Operating mainly from the left flank, Antman linked up effectively with Leo Walta, consistently stretching the opposition. His movement and direct approach caused problems for New Zealand’s defence, including a notable effort that forced a save from goalkeeper Max Crocombe.
While not a standout performance in terms of goals, it was a confident and energetic display that suggested he is rediscovering form.
Signs of Improvement
This resurgence did not come entirely out of nowhere. Before the international break, Antman showed promising signs during a brief cameo against Aberdeen in the Premiership, hinting that his sharpness was returning.
His latest international outing has now reinforced that progress.
A Selection Headache for Rohl
For Danny Rohl, Antman’s improvement creates both an opportunity and a dilemma.
As Rangers enter a crucial stage of the season, team selection becomes increasingly important. While attacking options are available, consistency has been an issue. Antman’s previous form made him easy to overlook — his current form makes that far more difficult.
The manager must now decide whether to stick with trusted players or reintroduce a winger who appears to be regaining confidence. Antman’s ability to play on either flank offers valuable tactical flexibility, particularly when pace and width are required.
Key Moment in the Season
At 24, Antman still has significant potential. A strong finish to the campaign could completely change how he is viewed by supporters and within the club.
However, he will need to prove consistency at club level. One strong international performance is encouraging, but it must be backed up in the demanding environment of domestic competition.
Conclusion
For Rangers fans, the message is clear: a player once considered forgotten is now pushing back into contention.
As the season reaches its decisive phase, Oliver Antman has chosen the perfect moment to remind everyone of his ability — leaving Danny Rohl with a difficult but welcome decision to make.
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