Rangers sporting director Ross Wilson has spoken about his delight at former B team coach Kevin Thomson taking the reins at League Two new boys Kelty Hearts – and insists he wants the Gers’ Academy to support the development of staff as much as players.
Thomson has worked with a variety of different age groups within the Academy at Rangers and Wilson is certain he will be a success with the Fifers and build on the impressive work done by ex-Ibrox skipper Barry Ferguson.
After taking up his first senior role in management, Wilson was full of praise for Thomson and confessed that he is “pleased” the former Rangers star has the chance to become a boss in his own right.
“Firstly I’m delighted for Kevin, we have had numerous conversations regarding his ambitions in management and I’m pleased this opportunity has presented itself,” Wilson told Rangers TV.
“Kevin joined Rangers Academy as an U14 coach and has worked his way through the U16 and U18 groups to the B-team. I want our Academy to be one that not only develops players but also supports the development of staff.
“Therefore, I am really pleased to see Kevin, particularly as a former Rangers player, develop his coaching credentials in our Academy and now onto senior management. I’m sure he will be successful at Kelty Hearts and wish him well in the job.”
What next for Rangers B?
Thomson’s departure comes at a pretty awkward time for Rangers with the Gers set to field a team in the Lowland League next season.
The former B team boss would have been in charge as they looked to vindicate the club’s fight for Colts to be allowed into the league pyramid, leaving Rangers looking for his replacement.
The likes of Graeme Murty could step back into the role he previously filled, or the Gers could look to promote from within – under-18s coach Davie McCallum being a possible candidate, as well as Brian Gilmour who worked alongside Thomson with the B team.
The Light Blues could also look to bring a new face in and former Rangers star Neil McCann is one name that has been suggested by fans online.
Ahead of a massive season for the Gers youngsters – who should also have a UEFA Youth League campaign ahead of them – Rangers will need to make sure they get this 100% right.
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