BY IAIN COLLIN – @CCP_sport
GARY Locke has admitted to harbouring concerns that new signing Jordan Thompson will continue to play for Rangers – but is thankful Raith Rovers have secured a youngster he believes has a ‘massive future’.
The former Manchester United trainee has joined Rovers on a loan deal until January, but the agreement allows the 19-year-old to also turn out for Rangers under-20s in their Irn Bru Cup campaign.
After making his debut for Raith in Saturday’s 2-0 win away to Ayr United, the teenager was back in action on Wednesday night, helping the Ibrox youngsters to a 4-0 win over Stirling University.
Locke was relieved to see the midfielder come through the match with his parent club in one piece and has predicted big things for the player, who is again expected to turn out for Rangers in the revamped Challenge Cup against Stenhousemuir on Tuesday.
“I’m delighted that Jordan’s come through okay,” the Stark’s Park manager told Capital City Press. “He had a game for Rangers during the week and he came through that unscathed, which was great.
“I’ve managed to secure someone who, for me, is a fantastic footballer.
“He’s a young lad with a massive future ahead of him, and I think he showed his qualities on Saturday.
“Hopefully he can show that every week.
Deal
“Part of the deal was that he could still play for Rangers under-20s. They were keen for him to play in the Challenge Cup.
“It’s not an ideal situation but, at the end of the day, he’s Rangers’ player and it allowed me to secure his services.
“He’s played and come through it, and hopefully he can turn it on again for us on Saturday.”
Rovers will be without a trio of experienced players for the visit of St Mirren tomorrow, with midfielders Scott Robertson and Iain Davidson, and defender Craig Barr all missing.
Robertson has suffered a setback in his recovery from a groin problem, whilst Barr has been missing since the end of last season with a similar issue. Davidson, meanwhile, is currently sidelined with a back complaint.
