Scotland striker Shankland named Rangers captain
Rangers have appointed Lawrence Shankland as their new club captain following his arrival from Hearts two months earlier. The 30-year-old forward, a Scotland international, has expressed his pride at the honour, describing it as surpassing his initial dream of simply playing for his boyhood club. Shankland brings captaincy experience from his previous role at Hearts, where he scored 88 goals across 171 appearances whilst wearing the armband.
Shankland takes over from James Tavernier, who served as Rangers skipper for 11 seasons and oversaw significant achievements including a Scottish Premiership title, two domestic cup wins, and a Europa League final appearance. The appointment arrives as manager Derek McInnes prepares Rangers for their league campaign opener against Dundee United on Friday, with senior players including Shankland expected to provide leadership and set standards within the squad.
- Shankland appointed Rangers captain after two months at the club, elevating him beyond his boyhood-fan ambitions
- Takes over from 11-year incumbent Tavernier, who secured a Premiership, two domestic cups, and a Europa League final
- Begins role ahead of season opener against Dundee United on Friday
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Lawrence Shankland is a 30-year-old striker who represents Scotland internationally. He joined Rangers from Scottish football rivals Hearts just two months ago, and Rangers is his boyhood club—one of Scotland's two biggest football teams. Being appointed as team captain is a significant honour within professional football and signals the club's trust in his leadership qualities.
Shankland comes with considerable captaincy experience, having worn the armband at Hearts where he scored 88 goals in 171 appearances. The captain's role in football involves setting standards and providing leadership within the squad, which becomes particularly important as Rangers prepare for crucial matches in their upcoming league campaign.
The previous captain, James Tavernier, held the position for 11 seasons and oversaw successful periods including a Scottish Premiership title, domestic cup wins, and reaching a European final. Shankland's appointment therefore represents a significant transition in club leadership, with manager Derek McInnes viewing him as the right figure to lead the squad forward.