Rangers have appointed a new Head of Academy.
Zurab Almirian has joined the Ibrox club as the Head of Academy Football.
He arrives from OH Leuven in Belgium - where he was the Head of Technical development - and will work under academy director Zeb Jacobs.
Jacobs said: “We are delighted to welcome Zurab to Rangers. His appointment as Head of Academy Football is the result of a long-term recruitment process as we set out to identify an individual who fits within the Academy’s culture and vision to create the most exciting learning environment in sport.
💙 #RangersFC are delighted to confirm the appointment of Zurab Amirian as Head of Academy Football from January 1st 2024, subject to the obtainment of a work permit. 📲 https://t.co/v2bJgIbUZ1 pic.twitter.com/nbvXjmfO4f
— Rangers B & Academy (@RFC_Youth) November 7, 2023
"Zurab will bring constant innovation and energy to the role, while he will also offer a wealth of knowledge and appreciation around player development after gaining vast experience as Head of Technical Development at OH Leuven.
"In addition, Zurab’s extensive global work with Double Pass, and knowledge of age specificity having worked across all age groups in Belgium, will help nurture and maximise the potential of our talented Academy players.
"We look forward to Zurab starting in the new year and inspiring our excellent staff and young players."
Meanwhile, Rangers star Cyriel Dessers insists he's hoping to play again for Nigeria in the African Cup of Nations in January.
But he could miss a host of matches for the Ibrox side if he gets his wish.
Dessers has won four caps for the Super Eagles, but has missed out on the past couple of squads picked by manager Jose Peseiro after being on the standby list.
The former Feyenoord star has netted five goals for Rangers since his summer move from Italian side Cremonese.
Nigeria have been drawn in a group alongside hosts Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau for the tournament.
