Leon King set to leave Rangers on loan despite start v Dundee
Rangers defender Leon King could be set for the exit door on loan from Ibrox this summer, despite starting against Dundee on Tuesday, according to Kenny MacIntyre.
King’s start in midweek was his first Scottish Premiership appearance of 2024 and only his fourth this season, and the 20-year-old struggled in the first half as the visitors took a two-goal lead.
The defender was on the cards to head on loan this season, but this will now wait until after the summer once Philippe Clement has settled on his squad with an overhaul imminent.
On BBC Sportsound [14 May, 19:55], MacIntyre commented: “Leon King’s had to be patient – he’s another one who has looked like he was going to be heading out, on loan at least.
“Starting with no Goldson, Balogun or Souttar, it seems Rangers have never had so many injury problems – especially at centre-half.
“We’ve seen him come on a couple of times as a sub this season, but mainly into a central midfield position.”
Is there a future for Leon King at Rangers?
King’s performance against Dundee was from a man without a great deal of football this season.
Rusty at the beginning and slow to adapt, not to mention an unfamiliar pairing with Ben Davies, it was an uphill struggle for the youngster, but he grew into the game and the second half was a welcome relief of pressure with the Light Blues so dominant.
King has had an excellent rise at a huge club, and will no doubt carve out an excellent career, but it would be naive to suggest he starts for a Rangers team next season who simply must hit the ground running, or Philippe Clement will be gone within weeks.
This summer of recruitment has to see the squad get heavily strengthened to compete with Celtic and King’s impact on the Gers team will come further down the line if it does.
His current contract has two years left to run – an issue Rangers may visit before sending him to gain more experience.
In other Rangers news, Kris Boyd and Chris Sutton clash live on Sky over Cyriel Dessers.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.