RANGERS have confirmed the departures of a handful of academy prospects as they plan ahead for the new campaign at youth level.

Daniel Finlayson and Matthew Shiels have agreed deals with St Mirren and Hamilton respectively, while Jamie Barjonas will link up with Kevin Thomson at Kelty Hearts.

Dapo Mebude and Brian Kinnear - who were suspended for breaching Covid rules in February - will also move on, as will Ciaran Dickson, who made his debut in the win over Falkirk.

Nathan Young-Coombes, Zac Butterworth, Harris O’Connor and Nicky Hogarth are also heading for the exit door this summer as they pursue new opportunities away from Ibrox.

Head of Academy Mulholland said: “It is always a sad time of year when you see a number of young men, some of whom you have seen grow from being very young children, move onto the next step in their journey.

"However, while it is always disappointing to leave a club like Rangers, this moment presents an exciting new opportunity to take their career in a new direction and use all the attributes they have developed while learning in Rangers Academy.

"I have no doubt each and every one of the lads who are moving on to pastures new will have strong careers in the game as there is some real talent in this group.

“Danny and Nathan already have good moves to clubs in the Scottish and English Premierships respectively, which also provides Rangers with a positive return, while many of the other lads have either secured or are already considering very good offers.

“We will now provide support, where required, to each player and the nature of our help will be individualised from player to player depending on their needs and future opportunities.

"Looking after the players when they leave, and even well into the future, is something we believe strongly in and is important given the bonds that we have developed with these lads and their families over many years.

“We wish them all well on their football journey and they will always be welcome back at Rangers Academy.”