Rangers to strengthen title bid with addition of Arsenal starlet

Rangers have begun their Ladbrokes Championship promotion charge with aplomb, but after only two games, Blues fans will be refreshed to see manager Mark Warburton isn’t resting on any laurels.

The former Brentford boss appears to have utilised his London links by bringing in exciting midfield prospect Gedion Zelalem on loan from Arsenal, initially until January, with an option to stay on until the end of the season.

Zelalem is an 18-year-old creative midfielder, but Arsene Wenger recognised his talent even earlier when blooding the teenager in an FA Cup tie against Coventry aged just 16.

The Arsenal boss has made concerted efforts to get all of his brightest prospects out on loan to taste competitive football and the Ibrox faithful will be hoping the Gers are big beneficiaries in this instance.

Zelalem has decided to commit his international future to the United States, although the Berlin-born player has represented Germany at U15, U16 and U17 so he clearly has promise in abundance.

After starting the season with a blitz of goals – St Mirren were beaten 3-1 at Ibrox before Alloa were roundly spanked 5-1 at Recreation Park – Zelalem will have to work hard to break into Warburton’s first XI right now.

With the likes of summer signing Andrew Halliday proving to be an instant hit in the Gers midfield, the young Gunner faces stiff competition for places.

Taking in the two opening cup ties to begin 2015/16 as well, Warburton has so far vanquished any doubts he couldn’t get new faces to gel quick enough, as his side have racked up an incredible tally of 17 goals in only four games.

All this means the Glasgow giants already look sewn on for the title according to their odds of 1/6 with Ladbrokes before their trip to Ayr for their Scottish League Challenge Cup tie – where Rangers are 5/4 to win with a two-goal handicap.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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