Rangers have provided an update on their plans to field a B team in the Lowland League from the start of next season.
The Light Blues have been left frustrated after the SFA stalled on proposals that would have helped the development of young Scottish players so they have accepted an invitation to play in the league below the current SPFL pyramid.
Supporters on Twitter all agree it is the right decision to help the club’s academy players, but they were scathing in their criticism of the SFA and SPFL who have failed to take the lead on the issue:
Brilliant Rangers & all other clubs looking to shake up the developmental progress of young Scottish football players – this has been looong overdue. Sure this will have the backing of most. SFA is not fit for purpose!
— Sam Beckett (@SamBeckett6) May 6, 2021
SPFL/SFA hang your head in shame…..well done Rangers excellent work????
— alloabear ?????#55?? (@sammykdy) May 6, 2021
What a sad tale. We need to see our young players actually playing. I would look forward to watching and supporting the Lowland league. Well done @RangersFC and shame on you @spfl and @ScottishFA
— Graham Haugh (@GrahamHaugh) May 6, 2021
Rangers leading the way again while the SPFL and SFA couldn’t organise a session to celebrate the end of COVID restrictions
— Graham Thomas (@GrahamT56138143) May 6, 2021
Its a great move for a developing side. Will improve the grassroots standards in the league
— BillyK (@BillyKsOpinion) May 6, 2021
Good to see us leading from the front on this. The void between 18-21 year olds in Scotland has effected us and the National Team for too long. This isn’t just about Rangers (or Celtic), it’s about the whole of Scottish football.
— Champion55 ? (@MrGaryValentine) May 7, 2021
Absolutely brilliant … a bit of truth being spoken about the stagnated ways of the SPFL and SFA … two organisations who clearly have no drive or determination to take our game forward … fair play to the famous for highlighting the problem ????
— Kings Park Rovers (@kingsparkrovers) May 6, 2021
The gap between the Under 18s and senior football is a huge issue that has needed to be addressed for a long time. Up until now, Rangers have used the loan system to try and give their academy products some much-needed first-team experience but it’s hardly ideal, as there are no guarantees that the player will be given opportunities to play. With that in mind, the B team is a major step forward.