Josh Gentles contract extended: Everything Rangers fans need to know
Josh Gentles has become the latest Rangers youngster to sign fresh terms with the club.
Rangers announced on 28 February that Gentles has agreed to extend his deal until June 2027, with the option for a further year.
It comes just one day after Kyle Glasgow’s first professional contract was announced by the Gers, and is another promising move.
The 18-year-old has notched four goals in five League One appearances on loan with Alloa Athletic, and there is plenty of excitement at Ibrox about his potential.
Here, Ibrox News shares everything that supporters of Danny Rohl‘s side need to know about the youngster and his contract situation.
What did Gentles say about new Rangers contract?
Gentles admitted that he is ready to take the opportunity that the Light Blues have handed him by rewarding his progress with a new deal.
Speaking after the terms were announced, he said: “I’m really excited. Rangers have been part of my life since a young age, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my journey through the Academy.
“It was an excellent experience being part of the first-team squad throughout pre-season, and it was a dream come true to run out at Ibrox in Rangers colours.
“I know there’s still a lot of hard work ahead of me, but I’m ready to give everything to keep developing and make the most of this opportunity.”
That suggests that he is keen to remain with his Bears for the foreseeable future and break into the first team picture.
Why Rangers fans should be keeping an eye on Gentles
Gers fans should be very excited about Gentles’ future, as he is one of the brightest talents in their academy.
He can play up front, out wide or behind the striker, and that versatility could prove vital for Rohl’s side in the coming years.
The youngster clearly knows where the goal is, although he was unable to make the required impact in the Championship with Raith Rovers, where he failed to score in eight appearances and was recalled.
That suggests that he needs more time away on loan before he is ready to make an impact for the Light Blues senior side.
Gentles made headlines for Wales Under-19s in their 3-2 win over Japan in November, when he started and finished a brilliant move to give the young Dragons the lead.
He was handed a chance in pre-season by Russell Martin, featuring in the friendlies with Club Brugge and Middlesbrough, so Gers supporters got a rare glimpse of the talented prospect.
However, it seems like they will have to wait until they see him properly in the first team, but that is probably the right move, given his inexperience at the top-level of Scottish football.
For more on Rangers, follow Football Insider for the latest updates on Rohl’s side.