IBROX caretaker boss Kenny McDowall has revealed he MUST play all five Newcastle on-loan unknowns if they are fit.
McDowall, who is working his notice period before quitting the crisis club, is under orders to find places in the first team for the five, all fringe and youth players at St James’ s Park.
They have joined the Championship side, 16 points off the pace behind Hearts at the top of the Championship, until the end of the season.
Newcastle’s owner Mike Ashley is a shareholder in the Ibrox club, and both Ashley and his Sports Direct company have loaned them significant funds in recent months to keep the lights on.
Rangers* and Ashley must attend SFA hearings next month to answer charges relating to his dual interest.Asked if he was under orders to pick the players, McDowall said: “Yes. They are obviously good players – they play for Newcastle – but I will carry on and do what I am told to do.
“When I was given the job, I was told players incoming and outgoing wouldn’t be my responsibility. I take the team and coach the team and I am more than happy to get on with it.”
McDowall revealed the instruction came from the club’s chief executive Derek Llambias, appointed by Michael Ashley and football board chairman Sandy Easdale.
He added: “I have been told what to do and I have told them I am more than happy to carry out what they have told me, so I don’t have a problem with it at all.”
All five are on stand-by to make their debut against Raith Rovers in the Scottish Cup Fifth Round tie on Sunday. Might be worth a wee bet on the Rovers…
