Can Rangers winger Josh McPake make an impact before the season’s end?
Young Rangers winger Josh McPake has enjoyed a superb season for the club’s academy.
His reward for stepping up to become and under-20s regular was to be named the club’s Young Player of the Season at their awards ceremony.
McPake, 17, is a young winger who has regularly earned praise from coach Graeme Murty over the course of the campaign.
He also says he looks up to one of the players he could replace, saying he rates Ryan Kent highly.
McPake told Rangers’ website: “It has been amazing, and every time I go round there I just need to prove myself and watch what the players there are doing like Ryan Kent, Alfredo Morelos and Jermain Defoe and try to pick it up and take it round to the academy.”
Give him a chance?
Rangers face a tough task to sign Ryan Kent due to Liverpool’s £12 million asking price [Liverpool Echo].
It makes sense for Rangers to give McPake opportunities between now and the end of the season, even if just as a substitute.
If the teenager can show he is ready now, it could force Rangers’ hand to promote him early.
The chance of silverware this season is over for Rangers and while they must ensure they finish in second place, the Gers must use these competitive games to develop their talented youngsters.
Even if McPake shows enough to suggest he is just a year away, it could help Rangers find a more short term solution to replace Kent, and avoid spending millions.
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