Jack Caldwell, a right-back in the Rangers youth, has officially signed his first professional contract at Ibrox.
The 15-year-old has signed a full-time contract at Auchenhowie and will be joining the Bears’ Under-18 squad moving forward, Rangers B and Academy said on X (January 14).
Although Caldwell is still a ways off from making his senior debut, the teenager will see a clear path up the hierarchy towards the first team with academy product Aflie Devine on the outside at Ibrox.
Technical director Nils Koppen stated on the Gers’ website: “We are thrilled to have Jack join the Rangers team on a full-time basis.
“Jack is taking an exciting step in his development both on and off the field as he has advanced through our academy and now joins our Under 18s group, where he will receive support through our education program.”
The newest young player on the Rangers production line is Jack Campbell.
The 15-year-old Campbell won’t be able to fill in at right-back for Philippe Clement, despite the fact that his current crop of Light Blue first-team defenders is beset by injuries.
Due to the absence of James Tavernier, Neraysho Kasanwirjo, and Dujon Sterling, Clement is currently being forced to make the unconventional decision to play a left-footer on the right side of his defence.
Devine’s inability to get a look-in in spite of this suggests that his immediate and long-term prospects are outside of Ibrox, which is something Campbell will be trying to avoid in the years to come.
Regardless of who is in the dugout at Ibrox, the position may undergo a full upheaval next summer. It seems unlikely that Kasanwirjo’s loan will be extended, and Tavernier is also expected to go.
Due to Rangers’ cut-and-thrust style, if a door does open for the teenager, he will have to seize it with both hands. Campbell will have to wait his turn as he moves up the Gers’ hierarchy.
