RANGERS are delighted to announce the signing of Northern Ireland youth international, Charlie Lindsay, on a full-time professional contract, subject to international clearance.
East Belfast’s Lindsay, 16, joins the Light Blues’ Academy after impressing at the prestigious Alkass tournament earlier this year.
Lindsay has already played for the Glentoran first-team, taking over from former Gers youth, Wayne Drummond, in becoming the youngest player to appear for the Irish League side.
Rangers’ Sporting Director Ross Wilson commented: “We are really excited that Charlie will join Rangers upon the transfer window opening and international clearance being received.
“We are now establishing strong ways of working in our scouting and recruitment teams across the first team and the Academy therefore it’s important that all of our staff have a vision that is clear as we position ourselves as a club that is ambitious to recruit the most talented academy aged players in the UK.
“We know that as a club we are hugely respected in Northern Ireland and our scouting presence in the country represents us exceptionally well. That vision starts with young players in Scotland but within our strategy we have identified other markets that we need to be extremely strong in and Northern Ireland is undoubtedly one of those.”
Meanwhile, Head of Academy Craig Mulholland added: “Charlie is a player who has been a priority for us for some time and we are delighted that he has chosen Rangers.
“He is an attacking midfield player who is one of the youngest to play senior football in Northern Ireland. Charlie was identified initially by our excellent scout in Northern Ireland, Phil Cowen, and having watched him many times it is clear his attributes fit the characteristics we look for in a Rangers player.
“Charlie also comes from a terrific family unit who provide lots of important support. When players with this attitude are exposed to the environment we now have at Rangers Academy, with lots of ‘best v best’ challenges, and top experienced staff in our coaching, sports science, medical, analysis, education and player care teams, it leads to a very exciting future for both the player and the club. We are delighted to welcome Charlie to Rangers and very much look forward to working with him.
“I’d like to add my thanks to Glentoran for their professionalism and the way they have worked together with us to make this deal happen.”