Lawrence Shankland has expressed that being appointed the captain of Rangers is a "huge honour" for him. The 30‑year‑old forward, who previously wore the armband at Hearts under the guidance of Derek McInnes, will now assume the same leadership responsibilities at Ibrox after both he and McInnes transferred to the club during the summer window. Shankland steps into the role following the departure of James Tavernier, and he was quick to convey his gratitude: "Obviously, it's a huge honour for me to be named captain of this football club.
I'm a lifelong supporter. It was a dream to be here in the first place but to be captain is a huge honour." He added that McInnes had informed him of the decision just an hour earlier. Drawing on his experience at Hearts, where he learned to conduct himself as a leader, Shankland explained, "When I was at Hearts, I was captain and the only way I've learned to behave and in my training has been to act as a captain and try to be a leader in the group. It hadn't been something I'd thought too much about, but I always look to myself to set examples on the training pitch and do things properly around the place." He highlighted that leadership at Rangers will not rest solely on his shoulders.
"That's not just myself. We've signed a lot of experienced players like Dan Neil, Ben Godfrey, guys who have been around big clubs and been captains.
So it's about all of us setting an example." Shankland noted that for the past two and a half years he has been accustomed to the responsibilities of captaincy, saying, "For the last two and a half years, all I've known is being captain of a club. It's something I've enjoyed. I took the responsibility." He also acknowledged the inevitable scrutiny that comes with the role, especially when the team faces adversity. "Of course, there's scrutiny when things get difficult and people look to the captain to answer up for the squad.
That's something I'll need to be responsible for but the flip side is the rewards of being a successful captain at this club outweigh it by miles. So it's something I'm really looking forward to." Manager Derek McInnes had experimented with the armband during pre‑season, handing it to several squad members including Ross McCrorie, Neil, Godfrey and Dujon Sterling. Ahead of his first competitive match as Rangers manager – a fixture against Dundee United broadcast live on Sky Sports – McInnes explained his decision to appoint Shankland.
He said, "When you come into a club and have to pick a captain, you're always mindful of the ones who have gone before. James Tavernier has served this club for a long time and served it well, so that discussion was always going to be there and it's something I've been asked about a lot since I took the job. I wanted to take time to look right through the squad and see how everybody was before making that call." McInnes continued, "The advantage Lawrence had is that I've already seen first‑hand how well he runs a dressing room, with his experience captaining Hearts for a few years.
We had a lot to consider, but plenty went in his favour – his experience, the fact we're still quite a young dressing room, and that he knows the club as a Glasgow boy who has supported Rangers and understands what's expected of him, of me and of the team this season. I've also got a strong relationship with him, which always helps." Beyond the ceremonial aspects, Shankland's appointment signals a strategic emphasis on fostering a cohesive, disciplined environment in a squad that blends youthful exuberance with seasoned professionals. The club's recent recruitment drive has brought in players such as Dan Neil and Ben Godfrey, both of whom have previously captained sides in the English Premier League and Championship.
Their presence, combined with Shankland's local roots and deep affinity for Rangers, creates a leadership group capable of guiding the team through the rigours of the Scottish Premiership and European competitions. Rangers supporters, many of whom have followed Shankland's career from his early days in the Scottish leagues, have welcomed the news.
Social media reactions have highlighted his humility, work ethic, and genuine passion for the club. Fans recall his memorable goals for Hearts and his reputation for leading by example, both on and off the pitch. As a native of Glasgow who grew up cheering for Rangers, Shankland embodies the connection between the team and its community, an element that many believe will strengthen the bond between players and supporters. The upcoming schedule provides an early test of Shankland's captaincy.
Rangers will face Dundee United away on a Friday night, a match that will be televised live on Sky Sports. The fixture list also includes a home clash against Hibernian at 4 pm, an away trip to Aberdeen at 3 pm, a mid‑week encounter with Falkirk at 7.45 pm, a home game versus Motherwell at 3 pm, and a marquee showdown with Celtic at noon, also on Sky Sports. These games will offer Shankland numerous opportunities to demonstrate his leadership, manage on‑field dynamics, and rally his teammates during critical moments. In addition to the on‑field responsibilities, Shankland will likely play a role in media duties, community outreach, and representing the club at official events.
The captaincy at a club of Rangers' stature carries expectations that extend beyond match days, including mentorship of younger players, fostering a professional culture in training, and acting as a liaison between the coaching staff and the squad. Overall, Lawrence Shankland's elevation to the captain's armband marks a significant chapter in his career and for Rangers as a whole. His blend of experience, local heritage, and proven leadership qualities position him well to guide the team through the challenges of the season. While the pressure will be substantial, Shankland's own words convey optimism and readiness: "The rewards of being a successful captain at this club outweigh the scrutiny by miles, and I'm really looking forward to embracing the role."