Young Rangers striker Chris McKee has joined NIFL Premiership champions Linfield on loan until the end of the season.
19-year-old McKee was outstanding for the Rangers B team last season and by the time he signed a one-year contract extension in November 2020, he was way out in front as the club’s top goalscorer at that level.
However, he’s slipped down the pecking order in recent times.
After a tough loan spell at Brechin City – who were ultimately relegated from the SPFL – during the second half of last season, he has struggled for playing time in the Lowland League.
Injuries have partly been to blame and McKee did bag a hat-trick against Gretna 2008 in August, but, in general, he’s been kept out of the side by the likes of Tony Weston and Juan Alegria.
Rangers youngster joins Linfield
Now, with just six months remaining on his Rangers contract, he’s headed out on loan.
McKee has joined David Healy’s Linfield until the end of the season.
It’s a club that’ll be familiar to the Northern Ireland youth international, as he spent time in The Blues’ Academy before joining the Gers.
“I’m delighted to have signed this loan deal with Linfield,” he said [Linfieldfc.com]. “I was here previously when I was younger and this is a great opportunity for me to work with a highly respected and successful manager and a highly talented squad of players.”
“I can’t wait to get started and I want to make a contribution over the coming months to help the club be successful.
“I am well aware of the demands and expectations at this club and all I want to do is challenge for a place within what is certainly a very strong squad.”
Linfield are currently two points clear of nearest challengers Cliftonville at the top of the Premiership table, as they go for a remarkable fourth consecutive league title.
Meanwhile, a Rangers-linked Eredivisie star has turned down a contract extension.
