BBC pundit Tam McManus has hailed Rangers’ capture of teenager Thompson Ishaka as a “coup” for the Old Firm club.

The Gers confirmed the signing of the 18-year-old at the start of this month, and it was reported that the Light Blues pipped Chelsea and Manchester City to secure the player’s signature. McManus admits he has only seen short clips of the Ishaka in action but he is optimistic that the forward can succeed during his time in Scotland:

“It could be a bit of a coup for Rangers if they can get him into the first team. I know he’s probably going to be playing with the B team but he’s just got to try and get into the senior team. If he does that and he plays, there’ll be some big offers for him.”

“If he’s wanted by clubs like [Chelsea and Manchester City], there must be something about him. But Rangers will want him to try and get into the first team as quickly as possible.”

Ishaka signed a two-year contract and, as McManus mentions, he is currently training with David McCallum’s B Team. He did start the Gers’ 3-1 defeat to Celtic in the Lowland League earlier this month when three Bears players were sent off.

The youngster was also in the team that played against the University of Sterling last Saturday. He was replaced with just over 20 minutes remaining by James Graham, who immediately got on the scoresheet and secured a 3-2 win for the Gers.