- Rangers backup goalkeeper Kieran Wright confirms he is leaving the club
- Wright began his Rangers journey as a 10-year-old boy in the academy
- The 27-year-old recently joined Kilmarnock in an emergency loan
Rangers squad goalkeeper Kieran Wright has confirmed his departure from the club, bringing a 17-year journey to an end.
Now 27, Wright leaves Ibrox as a man, having come all the way through the academy as a boy.
He may not have been a first-team figure, but in recent years, the training/backup goalkeeper role has become an important box to be ticked.
This is especially true from a homegrown quota perspective for European games.
First-team exposure for backup Rangers goalkeeper
Last month, Kieran Wright completed an unexpected emergency loan to Kilmarnock, answering the SOS call from Neil McCann.
That first team experience will have whetted the appetite for more for the keeper, who never made a first team outing at Ibrox.
Wright last played competitive football at Airdrie last season, making 24 appearances for the Diamonds across the Championship and different cup competitions.
Prior to that, he enjoyed spells on loan at Partick Thistle, Alloa Athletic, Livingston, and Dumbarton.
Speaking on his Instagram account, Wright said:
“I joined Rangers as a 10-year-old boy and after 17 years at the club, it’s time to part ways.
“I was fortunate enough to be part of so many unforgettable moments, meet some truly amazing people and make memories that will last a lifetime.
“But all good things must come to an end.”
Learning curve for players like Kieran Wright
In the role previously occupied by Andy Firth, Kieran Wright will have picked up a wealth of experience and learning that would normally be out of reach for a player at his level.
When players remain for so long in such a role, it speaks volumes for their preparation and professionalism, and that is to be respected.
All the best to Kieran Wright for the next step in his career.
What’s next for Rangers goalkeeper department
Going forward, it remains to be seen what Rangers goalkeeper department will look like for next season, with uncertainty over the futures of Jack Butland and Liam Kelly, with the latter possibly wanting to play regular football.
In the background is the highly-rated Rydnn McGuire.
The 17-year old could yet go on loan next season, but be recalled for European duty, as is possible under the new domestic co-operation agreements.
