Rangers youngster Nathan Patterson has signed a new long-term contract at the club.
The 19-year-old has penned fresh terms to stay at Ibrox until at least the summer of 2024.
Patterson has proven to be a capable back-up for captain James Tavernier at right-back when called upon this season, making four appearances including a start in a Europa League away win at Lech Poznan last month.
The Scotland Under-21 international made his senior debut a year ago and manager Steven Gerrard has been pleased with his development.
He told the club's website : "We have monitored Nathan’s progress closely over the past 18 months. His attitude is second to none, and I am particularly pleased with his desire to learn from his team-mates especially our captain, James Tavernier.
“Ross and I have discussed our plan with Nathan for the incoming 18 months and have made our expectations clear. Nathan is a strong example of our player pathway for those who are training with the first-team and in our academy."
Patterson recently insisted leaving Rangers to gain more first-team experience on loan hadn't crossed his mind and sporting director Ross Wilson insists there is a solid plan in place to continue his rise.
He said: “We are delighted with Nathan’s development. He is training really well, working diligently and showing strong progress.
“Aside from his technical and tactical work he has made significant physical gains working with our sports science performance staff. He’s made a strong impression on Steven and the staff in training and when he’s played in the team.
“Aside from our staff and his family who support him brilliantly, James Tavernier is another strong and positive influence on Nathan. When he signed a new contract last December I was clear to him and his family that if he outgrew that contract we would reward him further.
“I am delighted we are doing that in this contract extension which is another positive move in our club.”
