Clement must unleash "gifted" Rangers gem alongside Cerny

Rangers boss tipped to give keeper the chance to shine this season

Jon McLaughlin has been Rangers' first-choice goalkeeper for most of the season, but with the Europa League group stages now upon us, Allan McGregor rested, Jon McLaughlin injured and Robby McCrorie out on loan, it could be the opportunity for highly-rated young keeper Jay Hogarth to shine.

A Scotland under-21 international, Hogarth has been at Ibrox since he was 14 and signed a new deal in May to extend his stay until 2026. He has shone at youth level and was most recently on loan at Falkirk, where he made 14 appearances.

Goalkeeping coach makes a bold claim

Now, goalkeeping coach Colin Stewart believes the 6ft 3inch 21-year-old is ready to step up and make an impact in the Rangers first team.

“I think he’s gifted,” Stewart told RangersTV. “He’s a young goalkeeper, he’s only 21 years of age, but I think he’s got all the attributes to be a top goalkeeper. Technically, he’s very gifted. I think he’s one of the top young goalies in the country. I really do. I think he’s got everything it takes to go right to the very top. If he keeps his feet on the ground and keeps working hard, then I don’t see any reason why he can’t. He’s got all the potential in the world. I really do believe that.”

Could Rangers be set to hand a debut to Jay Hogarth?

Rangers have a busy fixture schedule coming up, with the Europa League group stage campaign starting next week and a packed schedule of fixtures in all competitions, so it is likely that Jon McLaughlin will not be able to play in every match. This could mean a chance for Hogarth to start a game and show what he can do at first-team level.

Speaking about the young goalkeeper, Giovanni van Bronckhorst said: “Jay is a big talent. He is still very young, but he has a lot of potential. He is a good shot-stopper and he is also good with his feet. We are very happy with his development and we believe that he can be a very good goalkeeper for Rangers in the future.”

With Rangers having aspirations of success in all competitions this season, it is important for them to have a strong squad depth and a solid option behind McLaughlin in goal. Hogarth could prove to be that option and could get his chance to shine in the coming weeks.