With Russell Martin beginning his Ibrox rebuild, one of the early decisions facing Rangers involves Ross McCausland, who could be set to depart permanently this summer.

Reports this weekend have linked the 22-year-old winger with a move away, with OH Leuven (Belgium), FC Basel (Switzerland), and FC Cincinnati (MLS) all credited with an interest. Unlike previous seasons where a loan might’ve been on the cards, this time it’s a permanent deal being discussedβ€”a clear signal of change under the new regime.


Stalled Progress After Early Promise

McCausland’s breakthrough into the first team had fans hopeful. He showed flashes of pace, direct running, and energy that hinted at a bright future. But truth be told, he hasn’t kicked on from that initial burst. If anything, his development has stalledβ€”and in some areas, regressed.

Injuries certainly didn’t help last season, but even when fit, he struggled to make a consistent impact. He started just four Premiership games in 2024/25, with a frustrating red card at Pittodrie highlighting the lack of composure and discipline that crept into his game.

At 22, there is still time for McCausland to develop. But if we’re being honest, it doesn’t look like that development will happen at Rangers. Not with the pressure to deliver trophies, not with new signings expected, and not under a manager like Russell Martin, who wants a high level of tactical execution from his wide players.


No Room for Sentiment in the Rebuild

Russell Martin has made it clear that he’s here to drive standards. That means tough decisionsβ€”and McCausland looks like one of the players who could make way. With a number of wingers likely to come in, McCausland simply isn’t going to get the minutes he needs to reach his potential.

Even more bluntly, we’re not convinced he’s going to reach the level needed to become a regular starter at Rangers. He’s technically capable, but his final ball, decision-making, and physicality haven’t improved the way many had hoped since his debut.

Time for a Fresh Start?

That’s not to say he can’t build a good career elsewhere. A move to a club like Basel or Cincinnati, where expectations are different and he could play regular football, might be just what he needs. At 22, it’s better to go and grow than sit on the bench at Ibrox hoping for minutes that may never come.

For Rangers, it would free up a squad slot and likely bring in a modest fee that could help reshape the squad. And for McCausland, it’s a chance to reboot his career in a less pressured environment.


Our Verdict

McCausland came through the academy with a lot of hype, but this feels like the right time to move on. A fresh challenge could be best for all partiesβ€”and Russell Martin is clearly not waiting around to see who might come good in a year or two.

πŸ’¬ Agree or disagree? Let us know what you thinkβ€”should Rangers cash in on McCausland or give him one last chance to prove he belongs in Light Blue?

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