Rangers starlet Zak Lovelace set for first team opportunity under Michael Beale v Bayer Leverkusen
Rangers starlet Zak Lovelace could be given a chance to impress new manager Michael Beale during the club’s friendly against Bayer Leverkusen (10 December), according to Football Scotland.
The friendly will be the 42-year-old’s first match since returning to Ibrox as manager, and the youngster is set to be given a chance to shine before the Gers face Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership on December 15.
Lovelace, 16, was brought up to first-team training by Beale as soon as he was appointed manager and according to the report, could now step into the starting XI ahead of other first-team regulars.
The report said: “The forward is another highly-rated player who made his debut against Queen of the South earlier this season and he might get an opportunity at Ibrox on Saturday. He’s played on the wing quite often for the B team and could play there for the first team.
“He was instantly brought up to first-team training by Beale when he took over and has reportedly impressed his new gaffer.
“He’s very fast and physical and he looks far too good to be playing B team football so it’s now about bridging that gap between the Lowland League and the first team.
“That could start with Saturday’s game if Beale decides to include him in the first-team squad for it.”
Huge talent
Lovelace is a hugely exciting prospect for the Gers and should be given a chance to shine under manager Beale – who was renowned for giving youth a chance during his short stint at Queens Park Rangers.
The 16-year-old is a very fast and physical forward, and although the likes of Antonio Colak, Alfredo Morelos and Kemar Roofe are blocking his direct path into the first team, he has the talent to force his way through.
Lovelace has been catching the eye for the Gers’ academy setup this season after joining from Milwall in the summer – scoring seven goals and providing two assists in 14 games for the B team.
He has also accumulated three assists in four UEFA Youth League matches for the Under-19s this campaign.
Beale must be patient with the Englishman and give him enough opportunities so he remains at the club, with scouts likely to be keeping a close eye on the youngster.
In other Rangers news, Michael Beale won’t be looking to sign Ahmed Kendouci in the January transfer window, according to the Heart & Hand podcast.