Rangers will embark on a historic Lowland League campaign this season when the Gers and Old Firm rivals Celtic field a B team in the fifth tier of the Scottish football pyramid.
The age-restricted sides will see the best Academy players at Rangers and Celtic take on the likes of East Stirlingshire, Berwick Rangers, East Kilbride, and Spartans as they are given an early taste of competitive, senior football.
The team will be primarily made up of the under-18s who lifted last season’s CAS title, securing their spot in 21/22’s UEFA Youth League, with one or two slightly older players involved.
Rangers will be playing their games at Dumbarton’s C&G Systems Stadium and kick off the season at home to Bo’ness United on July 17.
Here are five Rangers players we think could light up the Lowland League this season:
Alex Lowry
The long-haired, tattooed midfielder looks much older than his years suggest but will be hoping to build on his blossoming reputation in the Lowland League. The Scotland youth international can be a real creative force for Rangers B as they look to make their mark against senior sides.
Ross McCausland
Honour to get my first international cap and players player of the year🙌 pic.twitter.com/rilctY1ZSu
— Ross mccausland (@mccausland_ross) May 31, 2019
McCausland has already built a decent following after his impressive performances for the Gers Academy sides caught fans’ attention. The Northern Irish teen is regularly on the scoresheet for the Light Blues and will be hoping to carry that into competitive games for the B team.
Charlie Lindsay
The former Glentoran teen has made a strong start to his Rangers career, regularly impressing for the Academy sides. Lindsay has already tasted senior football before joining the Light Blues but is one who can make a real impact this season. Since picking up the Player of the Tournament trophy at the Alkass Cup, Lindsay has only continued to push on, and the young attacker
Aaron Cervantes
The American goalkeeper arrived at Ibrox with a big reputation but has been used sparingly with the under-18s so far. The chance to play competitive football will be an excellent challenge for Cervantes as he looks to push towards the first team at Ibrox. The ex-Orange County SC showstopper will have a fight on his hands for the gloves from Jack McConnell.
Kyle McClelland
The defender spent time on loan at Falkirk but never really got a consistent run of games at the Bairns last season. Previously linked with a move to Southampton, McClelland will be a big figure in the Gers’ defense. Comfortable in and out of possession, the Northern Irish youngster’s experience will come in very handy for Rangers.