Rangers midfielder Stephen Kelly has officially joined ‘unique’ EFL League Two club Salford City on loan until the end of the season.
Kelly spent the first half of the campaign with the Rangers first team.
However, he only made two substitute appearances, so it was always likely that he would head out elsewhere this month in search of playing time.
The extremely talented 21-year-old has already had two loan spells away from Ibrox.
He excelled in the Scottish Championship at Ayr United first time around and then had a decent spell at Ross County last season.
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Now, he’s set for his first taste of English football.
Rangers midfielder heads to EFL on loan
Kelly has joined Salford City, who are currently eleventh in the English fourth tier, with immediate effect.
It’s a blow for the likes of Tranmere Rovers, Kilmarnock and Dunfermline Athletic, who had all also been credited with interest [Daily Record].
“I’m delighted to be here, excited as well. It’s a unique club and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Kelly, likely referencing Salford’s rapid rise through the divisions since members of Manchester United’s ‘Class of 92’ got involved [Salfordcityfc.co.uk].
“I had a few loan spells in Scotland but obviously it’s different coming down to England. It’s a very tough league, physical and a good level so I’m looking forward to it.
“I think it’ll be a different challenge yeah, but obviously the Club has got big ambitions, big pressure, I want to help the Club get to where they want to go as much as possible, and get back out playing and showing what I can do.“
While many Bears would like to see Kelly playing at a slightly higher level, game time is the priority for him over the coming months and he should get it at the Peninsula Stadium.
He could make his debut when Salford travel to Bradford City on Saturday afternoon.
Meanwhile, Rangers are reportedly keen to offload two fringe players before the end of the month.