Zak Lovelace transfer: Rangers 'surprise' emerges after late Ibrox development

Zak Lovelace moving to Millwall from Rangers on transfer deadline day was a surprise, Craig Moore says.

The former Gers defender was caught off guard as the 19-year-old returned to the Championship outfit in the winter transfer window.

Moore believes the young forward was finally starting to make an impact in the Light Blues' team after being handed opportunities recently.

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show (4 February), the 49-year-old said: "I think the one surprise was Lovelace, who was starting to come in and make an impact.

"Very good assist for Dessers, good through ball. He returns to Millwall which is where he burst onto the scene as a young 15-year-old."

Zak Lovelace Millwall transfer surprising for Rangers

Philippe Clement had given Lovelace several opportunities in the last few matches, with the 19-year-old providing an assist as the Glaswegian outfit beat Dundee United 3-1 on 26 January.

The Ibrox faithful evidently thought the Englishman would be the next big thing, but his departure has probably come as a shock.

In recent months, the Belgian manager has put his faith in youngsters like Hamza Igamane, and Lovelace could have been seen in the same regard in the coming future.

Rangers have several prospects in their ranks, and arguably, a better succession plan is needed for them to make a convincing argument for their continuity at Ibrox.

Unless academy stars are given more chances, they will eventually seek a move away from the Light Blues.

It has been encouraging to see Clement hand Bailey Rice consistent minutes, and Findlay Curtis is another talent the head coach has called upon in recent matches.

Lovelace feels like one player the Gers let slip through their hands, and it remains to be seen how the England Under-19 international will develop back in South East London.

In other Rangers news, an incredible verdict has dropped regarding Rabbi Matondo after his move to Germany.

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