Glentoran starlet Charlie Lindsay makes dream move to Rangers

The Glentoran Academy starlet created his own piece of history for the Oval outfit when he took over Wayne Drummond, in becoming the youngest player to appear for the Irish League side.

He now joins the Light Blues’ Academy after impressing at the prestigious Alkass tournament earlier this year.

Rangers’ Sporting Director Ross Wilson told the club website: “We are really excited that Charlie will join Rangers upon the transfer window opening and international clearance being received.

“We are now establishing strong ways of working in our scouting and recruitment teams across the first team and the Academy therefore it’s important that all of our staff have a vision that is clear as we position ourselves as a club that is ambitious to recruit the most talented academy aged players in the UK.

“We know that as a club we are hugely respected in Northern Ireland and our scouting presence in the country represents us exceptionally well. That vision starts with young players in Scotland but within our strategy we have identified other markets that we need to be extremely strong in and Northern Ireland is undoubtedly one of those.”

Meanwhile, Head of Academy Craig Mulholland added: “Charlie is a player who has been a priority for us for some time and we are delighted that he has chosen Rangers.

“He is an attacking midfield player who is one of the youngest to play senior football in Northern Ireland. Charlie was identified initially by our excellent scout in Northern Ireland, Phil Cowen, and having watched him many times it is clear his attributes fit the characteristics we look for in a Rangers player."

Lindsay made his debut for the Under 20s when just fourteen, and earlier this season he became Glentoran’s youngest ever first team player when he played against Ballyclare Comrades at the Oval.

Glentoran Academy Manager Stephen Lowry said of Charlie’s big move on the Glens' website: “It has been a privilege and honour to watch Charlie progress through our Academy from a very young age. There has been times his headlines have made me even prouder to be a Glenman.

"His attributes are a joy to watch and I personally will miss being able to nip down the road and watch him play on a Saturday. The team Charlie played in, our 2004s, were a special bunch the like of which only comes around now and again.

"Watching that team play under Charlie’s dad Jason was mesmerising and what struck me most about them was how they seemed to communicate with each other almost telepathically! They just knew where to be and what runs to make for each other and where to put the ball at the right times without even really shouting to each other.

"That team now reaches the end of its cycle and as it breaks up with the lads moving across the water or on to our senior ranks all we can do is hand them over now and hope we’ve prepared them well and wish them all the best.

"I’m sure I can speak for all Glenmen when I say we really look forward to following Charlie’s progress and let’s hope he can smash more records with his new club. Rangers are gaining a star okay!”