Rangers make official announcement as defender signs contract at Ibrox
Rangers have not started the season in the best manner and appear to be missing out on qualifying for the Champions League.
Club Brugge beat Rangers 3-1 in the first leg, leaving Russell Martin’s side a mountain to climb in Brugge.
Danilo scored at Ibrox in the second half to give his side some hope, but they have to overcome a two-goal deficit next Wednesday.
Even domestically, Rangers have drawn against Motherwell and Dundee and are yet to win a game in the SPFL.
Conor Owen signs first professional contract
Young defender Conor Owen has progressed up the ranks at Gers over the past few years.
He even featured for the Under-16s side at the Alkass International Cup in Qatar earlier this year.
Owen also captained the Under-17s to victory in the Old Firm derby against Celtic in the league opener on Friday.
The club have wasted no time in tying him down to a professional deal, the first one of his fledgling career.
Gers announced, via their official website on 20 August, that Owen had put pen to paper on a new contract and will continue his development at Ibrox.
What can Rangers do next with Owen?
Owen’s next steps at the club would now likely involve transitioning into the full-time professional environment, focusing on honing his technical, tactical and physical skills.
As a young defender with leadership qualities, he should prioritise consistent performances for the Under-18s and B team, aiming to impress in competitive matches like the UEFA Youth League.
Regular training with senior academy players and occasional first-team exposure will enhance his understanding of high-level football.
Rangers can maximise his development by providing tailored coaching to refine his defensive positioning, ball-playing ability and decision-making under pressure.
Integrating sports science, including strength and conditioning programs, will build his physical resilience.
Mentorship from experienced defenders and regular performance reviews will help track progress and address weaknesses.
Opportunities to captain youth sides, as he did for the Under-17s, will further develop his leadership.
Loan spells to lower-tier Scottish clubs could provide valuable senior experience, ensuring Owen progresses toward a potential first-team breakthrough while fulfilling his evident potential.
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