Josh McPake has signed a contract with Stirling Albion until the end of the season, his first move after leaving Rangers.

The winger rose to prominence under Steven Gerrard and was regarded as a top prospect at Ibrox. He made one senior appearance for Rangers and has had several loans out of the Premiership club. His only appearance at Ibrox was against St Joseph’s in a Europa League qualifying match.

McPake began the season with the Light Blues, but left in September and has not had a steady club since. That period of free agency came to an end this week, when Binos manager Darren Young offered him the opportunity to return to League One until the end of the season.

He was thrust into the starting lineup and made a significant contribution in a 4-0 victory over Edinburgh City. With the score still 1-0 in favor of the Forthbank hosts after a Paul McLean effort, he hammered home a’stunning’ free-kick to make it two, according to the Binos X report.

Another McLean goal and a Dale Hilson effort finished Edinburgh off, and McPake played 67 minutes on his debut. Boss Young stated on Stirling Albion’s website before the match: “We are happy to have Josh on board. He’s a quality player who will help the team.

“I’m confident he can create, score goals and will hopefully bring us that cutting edge that we have been lacking in the final third.”

McPake does have much senior experience. He has had loan spells with Dundee, Morecambe, Morton, Tranmere Rovers, Harrogate Town, and Queen’s Park.