Rangers named first-team captain ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Lawrence Shankland Named Rangers Men’s First-Team Captain for 2026/27 Season
Rangers Football Club has announced that Lawrence Shankland will lead the side as captain for the upcoming 2026/27 Scottish Premiership campaign. The 30-year-old striker, who joined the club from Heart of Midlothian in May 2026, steps into the role following his arrival at Ibrox on a two-year deal with the option of a third year.
The announcement, made via the club’s official channels, marks a swift rise in influence for the Glasgow-born forward, who has fulfilled a lifelong dream by signing for his boyhood club. Shankland wore the No.7 shirt and has already shown leadership qualities that convinced manager Danny Rohl to entrust him with the armband ahead of Friday’s season opener against Dundee United.
Shankland’s journey is one of remarkable perseverance. Released by Aberdeen as a young player, he rebuilt his career through lower-league football with Ayr United and Dundee United, where prolific scoring earned him a move to Hearts in 2022. At Tynecastle, he became club captain, scored over 70 goals in 135 appearances, and played a pivotal role in pushing the Jambos close to major honours, including a strong title challenge in 2025/26. His form also secured regular Scotland caps, with appearances at Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup.
Supporters have welcomed the decision, viewing Shankland as a leader who combines experience, goal threat, and a deep connection to the club. At 30, he brings maturity and a proven winning mentality from his time captaining Hearts through challenging derbies and European campaigns.
In his first comments as captain, Shankland is expected to emphasise unity and ambition as Rangers aim to challenge at the top of the table. His appointment symbolises a new chapter at Ibrox, blending homegrown passion with proven domestic pedigree.
The former Hearts skipper will now focus on leading by example on the pitch, starting with the trip to Tannadice. Fans will hope his leadership and clinical finishing can help deliver silverware in the new season.