Vignal arrival was bolt from Le Bleu
didn’t have a lot of interaction with the academy. But you see now that the academy and the first-team work closer together.
“We have had a few young boys round training with the first team and that is great for their development. The young players see some of their teammates getting to work with the first-team squad and it gives everyone a lift. They can see they can get there as well.”
Vignal is one of a number of former Light Blues stars that are now working with kids of all ages at the Rangers Football Centre.
The 36-year-old is still in the early stages of his coaching career as he looks to make the transition onto the touchline.
He has already gained valuable experience, though, and his sessions in Scotland could have a continental flavour in the coming months.
Vignal said: “The way we work in France is different to the way it works in Scotland. The French academy is very good, but so are the Scottish ones and they have introduced the Project Brave scheme now as well.
“That could be good for the whole of Scottish football. I am hoping to bring some new ideas that I have learned in France with me here and help some of the younger boys develop. I can’t tell you what they are, it is a secret, I will keep them for just the people at the club.
“I was 19 when I went to Liverpool from Montpellier. I worked with Gerard Houllier, Phil Thompson and Sammy Lee and I learned a lot from them.
“Even when Rafa Benitez came in for pre-season I was very impressed by the way he used to manage things and his training was always very good.
“I learned a lot from some top managers and I think that can help me in my own coaching career.
“It is my target to be a manager – I am just starting my career as a coach and I will take it step by step. Hopefully it will happen – it may take time but I want to do it.
“I started my badges in 2008 and have my UEFA licence and my target is Pro Licence.
“Hopefully one day you will see me on the bench at Rangers helping the team win as a coach.”