Former Millwall youngster’s first Rangers start ends in injury agony

Former Millwall youngster Zak Lovelace made his first senior start for Rangers in their Scottish Premiership in their 3-0 win at St Mirren.

The 17-year-old was named in the starting line-up for the first time by interim boss Steven Davis, who was in charge after Michael Beale was sacked last week.

Lovelace had featured off the bench for the Gers, but this was his first start. He lined up in a front three alongside Kemar Roofe and Abdallah Sima.

He played a key role in the first goal, whipping a cross along the face of goal and forcing St Mirren wing-back Ryan Strain to handle the ball.

Lovelace came off injured with a suspected hamstring injury and was replaced by Ross McCausland in the 42nd minute.

Stretham-raised Lovelace joined Rangers in July 2022 after turning down a professional deal at Millwall.

The striker became Millwall’s second youngest ever debutant when he came on against Coventry City in December 2021, aged 15 years and 340 days.

He made a total of five appearances for the Lions before heading north of the border.