Rangers have sanctioned loan moves for two of their promising young players, with Archie Stevens joining Dunfermline Athletic and Blaine McClure heading to Kelty Hearts for the remainder of the season.
Teenage winger Stevens linked up with Dunfermline on Friday and will be part of the squad for Saturday’s Fife derby against Raith Rovers.
The 19-year-old, who previously came through AFC Wimbledon’s ranks before moving to Rangers at 16, has also represented England at youth level, earning seven caps for the U17s and three for the U18s.
Dunfermline boss Michael Tidser admitted that he is excited about the arrival of Stevens and is keen to see how he adapts to first-team football.
He said: “We’re really pleased to get that over the line. He’s a good player, he’s young, exciting, very quick. I’ve seen him play. He’s very direct, he likes to take the ball and get at players.
“Again, it’s a different challenge coming from the Rangers B team, and training with the reserves, to then playing first team football. It’s a challenge that you need to stand up and show what you’ve got.
“It’s up to us to, one, look after him, and two, try and get the best out of him. To make sure he enjoys his football because, ultimately if you’re enjoying your football, you’re playing the best you can.
“So it’s up to us as a group, as a squad, as staff. I’ve done it before. I’ve taken boys out of different clubs – Dundee United, Aberdeen, Rangers, and they’ve always done well for me, so I’m hoping this is another one.”
Read more:
- Nikola Katic to Rangers links end as defender joins Plymouth on loan
- How Rangers faced toughest route to Europa League top-eight
Meanwhile, Kelty Hearts have secured the services of McClure, a highly-rated Northern Ireland Under-19 international.
The Belfast-born midfielder, who joined the Ibrox academy from Linfield, has impressed with the Rangers U18 and B teams, earning a reputation for his quality in possession and threat from set pieces.
McClure will be available for selection, pending SFA approval, for Kelty’s Scottish League One fixture against Annan Athletic.
Both Stevens and McClure will be aiming to make the most of their loan spells as they gain valuable senior experience away from Ibrox.
