Rangers prospects Lewis Mayo and Stephen Kelly have responded when asked whether or not they expect to leave the club on loan during the 2020/21 season, as quoted by Rangers.co.uk.
Both players saw loan spells cut short at the end of last month when the SPFL’s resolution was passed and the Scottish Championship campaign was declared finished.
Kelly had joined Ayr United at the beginning of the season and racked up 33 appearances in central midfield for the Honest Men, scoring six times.
Centre-back, Mayo, signed for Partick Thistle at the back end of the January transfer window but a niggling injury and postponements ensured he managed only three appearances for the Jags.
Despite having very different experiences, it seems both players would be open to heading out of Ibrox again next season.
“Football is unpredictable at the best of times so it’s hard to say,” said Mayo during a fan Q+A, as quoted by Rangers.co.uk. “Loan moves can be great, if they work out, for playing regular competitive football, so I would definitely be open to it, yes.”
“The best way to prepare is to be ready for any route in football in my opinion.”
Kelly was a little more reserved in his response.
“Once the season starts back and we get back into the swing of things I will be able to have a clearer picture of what my plans will be, whether that is another loan or not.”
Verdict
These two young players, both aged 20, are coming to crucial stages in their development.
With that in mind, it’s a shame neither were able to properly complete their respective stints away from Ibrox.
Kelly had performed consistently across the season and looked likely to be involved in the Championship play-offs, while Mayo had impressed in his first few outings for Thistle.
The ultimate goal for both will be to break into the first team sooner rather than later, but with competition fierce both in the heart of midfield and defence, nailing down a spot will prove extremely difficult.
