Whilst the attentions of Rangers fans have been on prospective new signings, the club have been busy tying up a few youth deals this week.
Philippe Clement stuck true to his word by offering young left-back Robbie Fraser a new contract after his breakthrough into the first team last season.
Whilst they’re still waiting to make their first team debuts, Fraser’s contract followed new academy deals for Kerr Robertson, Darren McInally and Kristian Webster in the weeks previously.
Now, Rangers have tied yet another youth talent down with the nature of the long-term contract a statement of intent regarding the club’s ambitions with the stopper.
Clement & Koppen talk Munn delight
Northern Irish youth goalkeeper Mason Munn has been making a big impression in the Rangers youth set-up.
Catching the eye in last season’s Scottish Youth Cup Final, big things are expected of the towering 18-year-old who has been capped up to U19 level with Northern Ireland.
A towering 6ft3, it’s clear Rangers hold big ambitions for the stopper having just handed him a new four-year contract until 2028.
Rangers manager Philippe Clement then waxed lyrical about the kid to the official Rangers website.
“We are delighted that Mason has committed his future to Rangers,” said Clement.
“It is recognition of his development in the Academy in recent years, and, as a boyhood Rangers fan, he is well aware of what it takes to represent this club.
“There is further improvement to come from Mason in the years ahead and we look forward to his continued development as an individual.”
Nils Koppen added: “Throughout his development in the Rangers Academy, Mason has shown the necessary attributes along with the natural talent that is required by modern goalkeepers to give himself the best chance to continue his already strong progression.
“We are pleased that he sees his future at Rangers and, with the coaching, facilities and support staff here at the club, we believe he is in the perfect environment to develop.”
Rangers goalkeeper hopes build
It’s suggested by both the length of the contract and from the comments of Clement & Koppen that Rangers view the new Mason Munn contract as a big deal.
It’s not often Rangers hand out such bumper contracts to young players and it very much sends a message about how the Gers see the goalie’s career progressing.
Whilst Jack Butland remains the undisputed number one at Ibrox, there is going to be substantial upheaval in the goalkeeper position this summer.
Jon McLaughlin has left at the end of his contract whilst Robby McCrorie looks like likely to leave in search of first-team football.
With Scotland international Liam Kelly set to replace him, the stage is set for Mason Munn to be third choice keeper for the club from here on in.
Confident, talented and a bluenose into the bargain, Rangers see big things in the Ulsterman’s future.
