Rapid young striker Dapo Mebude has posted an emotional farewell message on Twitter following his recent Rangers exit.
Mebude spent time at an SFA Performance School as well as attending Rangers’ youth partnership school Boclair Academy and impressed at age-group level for the Gers.
He was handed a first-team debut by Steven Gerrard at Kilmarnock during the final match of the 2018/19 Premiership season and was tipped for big things at the club.
However, he didn’t manage to add to that appearance and was one of five players involved in a high-profile breach of Covid regulations in February.
Mebude subsequently received an SFA ban which kicked in while he was out on loan in the SPFL Championship with Queen of the South and Rangers confirmed earlier this month that he was leaving the club [Rangers.co.uk].
The 19-year-old has now spoken out, suggesting it was his call for him to cut ties rather than the club’s.
“It has been a tough decision but after nine years being at Rangers, I have decided to move on and take the next step in my career,” reads the start of a lengthy note he tweeted on Tuesday afternoon.
“Making my debut at Rangers was a moment I’ll never forget and I will forever be grateful to the Gaffer and 1st team staff for that. The fans throughout my time at the club have shown me a lot of support from a young age and I appreciate that.
“Seeing the club get back where they belong this season was special for everyone involved at the club and I hope the club continue with every success in the future.”
The former Ger then signed off with “I came as a kid and left as a man – Thank you.”
Several young players have already found new clubs for 2021/22, including Matthew Shiels (Hamilton Accies) and Jamie Barjonas (Kelty Hearts), but it’s not yet clear who Mebude will be turning out for next season.
Many of the young talents staying on at the club will get the chance to play in the Lowland League and Rangers have struck a stadium deal with an SPFL club for the duration of the campaign.