Derek McInnes has spoken highly of Lawrence Shankland, calling him an "exceptional" captain who will wield a "substantial influence" at Rangers regardless of whether he is in the starting eleven. The Scottish forward first captained McInnes at Hearts and followed his manager to Ibrox during the summer transfer window, assuming the same leadership role with the Glasgow club. Since arriving in Govan, Shankland has struggled to find his rhythm.
He was not included in the starting line‑up for Rangers' 5‑1 home victory over St Mirren in the League Cup on Sunday, with midfielder Nico Raskin wearing the armband instead. Despite the benching, McInnes remains convinced that Shankland's presence will be felt throughout the squad. In the run‑up to the first leg of the UEFA Conference League play‑off against Czech side Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday, the manager explained his philosophy: "When I talked to Lawrence I made it clear that being captain does not guarantee any special treatment, and he accepted that.
He is not going to get upset about it. Someone has to be the club captain and, having worked with Lawrence before, I know he is a brilliant leader and a brilliant young man.
He has a lot to contribute, even if people sometimes read too much into the role. I want my captain to have a big influence both on and off the pitch, and I truly believe Lawrence will deliver that. For me, the question is settled, even if some observers try to read more into it." Shankland’s on‑field contribution this season has been limited.
He made his second substitute appearance of the campaign in the second half against St Mirren but was unable to add to his solitary goal for the Gers—a penalty scored against Polish side Jagiellonia in a Europa League qualifier. Nevertheless, McInnes is unperturbed. He said, "When you have a player like Lawrence, who knows how to find space in the box and finish chances, I don’t worry excessively. He is too talented not to score on a regular basis.
He proved that during his time at Hearts, where he consistently netted around twenty goals a season. Sometimes the media can over‑emphasise a dip in form, but for me it’s about letting him play his natural game.
The best strikers have an instinctive quality that makes everything look effortless, and I have no doubt he will rediscover that here." The manager also addressed the club's recent defensive signing. Earlier in the day Rangers announced that 20‑year‑old Serbian international Kosta Nedeljković had joined on a season‑long loan from Aston Villa, with an obligation to purchase at the end of the term. Nedeljković becomes McInnes' eleventh summer acquisition and will compete with Dujon Sterling and Ross McCrorie for a place at right‑back.
"We identified the need for a different type of full‑back early in pre‑season," McInnes explained. "We looked at a number of options. The team has relied heavily on Dujon, who has had a history of injuries, so we wanted a fresh profile. I have great respect for Dujon, but Kosta brings a blend of enthusiasm, athleticism and the ability to shuttle up and down the flank, similar to what we see from Vanja Dragojević in midfield.
He shows quality and a real eagerness to play his role. As a young player, there are still areas to develop, and we look forward to helping him improve." Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, McInnes emphasized the broader cultural impact of having a captain like Shankland. He noted that leadership in a football club extends beyond match‑day decisions; it includes setting standards in training, mentoring younger players, and representing the club’s values in the community. Shankland, who hails from Scotland and has experience at both domestic and European levels, is well‑placed to embody those expectations.
His previous stint as captain at Hearts gave him insight into managing dressing‑room dynamics, dealing with pressure, and maintaining professionalism—attributes that McInnes believes will translate into a positive influence at Rangers. The manager also touched on the psychological aspect of captaincy. "Being captain can be a heavy burden if you think of it as a guarantee of playing time or a shield from criticism," he said.
"Lawrence understands that the role is about responsibility, not entitlement. He knows he must earn his place each week, and that humility is what makes him a respected leader." In terms of on‑field tactics, McInnes hinted that Shankland’s skill set could be utilised in various ways. While traditionally a central striker, Shankland’s movement, ability to hold up play and aerial prowess allow him to drop deeper or drift wide, creating space for midfield runners.
This flexibility could be crucial in the upcoming Conference League tie, where Rangers may need to adapt to different styles of opposition. McInnes added, "Lawrence can play as a focal point, but he also understands how to link with the midfield, pull defenders out of position and open channels for our wingers.
That tactical versatility is another reason I value his presence, captain or not." Overall, the message from Ibrox is clear: the club trusts Shankland’s character and footballing intelligence to guide the squad through a busy schedule that includes domestic league matches, cup fixtures and European commitments. While his goal tally may not yet reflect his reputation, McInnes is confident that, given time and the right environment, Shankland will rediscover the prolific form that made him a standout at Hearts and will lead Rangers with the same determination he has shown throughout his career.