Hastie has his sights set on more heroics
JAKE HASTIE is aiming to make a seamless return to Motherwell after agreeing a seasonlong loan move from Rangers.
The 21-year-old winger came through the Fir Park youth ranks to achieve prominence in the 2018-19 season, scoring eight goals in 15 appearances.
That form earned him a move to Ibrox last summer, but Hastie made only two first-team appearances before being loaned to Rotherham United in England’s League One.
He will spend the forthcoming campaign back in Lanarkshire, although Rangers hold a recall option in January.
‘I’m absolutely delighted to be back,’ said Hastie. ‘I’ve been with Motherwell since I was nine years old.
‘A year away has helped me grow even more as a player, but it’s also made me appreciate what the club does for me to help me develop.
‘I’m ready to go. I want to pick up where we left off just over a year ago and I want to make an impact on the team scoring goals.’
Hastie made his Motherwell debut back in October 2016 as a 17-year-old.
Loan periods with Airdrieonians and Alloa then followed before he emerged as a potent player in Stephen Robinson’s system in January 2019.
The Fir Park manager believes that having Hastie back in his ranks is a significant boost for the club as they look to follow up on last season’s impressive thirdplaced finish in the Premiership.
‘We need someone strong and direct in the wide areas,’ said Robinson. ‘Jake gives us that.
‘We know what he’s capable of and we are looking forward to working with him again.’ Hastie is under contract at Rangers for another three years, with Ibrox sporting director Ross Wilson believing that a return to Lanarkshire for now is the best step for his progression.
‘Jake needs to keep playing first-team football and to continue his development,’ said Wilson. ‘We wanted that learning to come in the Scottish Premiership this season.
‘Our discussions with Motherwell have been positive and we share the same goal to make this loan experience a strong one.’
Meanwhile, young Rangers goalkeeper Robby McCrorie has signed a contract extension until 2023. The 22-year-old, who has been capped by Scotland at Under-21 level, enjoyed successful loan spells at Livingston and Queen of the South last season.
McCrorie is set to be loaned out again as Steven Gerrard is keen for him to continue gaining experience ahead of a push to become the Ibrox No 1. Gerrard admitted recently that he saw a huge future for McCrorie at the club — and that has been reflected in the agreement of a new deal.
‘It means a lot and I am buzzing it has been done,’ said McCrorie. ‘I first joined the club when I was turning eight years old and I am happy that the journey is continuing.
‘It means everything to me and my family. Every day I come in, being the Rangers goalkeeper is always in the back of my mind and it is why I work as hard as I can to give myself the best opportunity.
‘And, if it does happen, I’ll always want more after that. I’ll never settle — even if I get my debut, I’ll always keep pushing.’