RANGERS have refused to release winger Fraser Aird to play for Canada Under-20s in the CONCACAF tournament in Jamaica next week.

The 19-year-old midfielder has established himself as a key member of the Championship side this season.

And with Rangers due to face Hearts in a crucial encounter a week on Friday, caretaker boss Kenny McDowall has refused the Canadians permission to include Aird in the competition, which provides qualification for the Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand next year.

Canada U20 head coach Rob Gale said: "I'm a bit disappointed to lose some key characters with clubs not releasing them, but it will provide opportunities for talented players to step up and prove they can apply themselves at this level."

However, Ibrox colleague Luca Gasparotto has been allowed to feature in the games against Mexico, El Salvador, Cuba and Honduras. Caley Thistle's Calum Ferguson has also been called up.

Meanwhile, Arnold Peralta could be the next man heading for the Ibrox exit this month as clubs in Spain and America weigh up a move for the midfielder.

The Honduran is likely to be allowed to leave if he can clinch a deal. Brentford, who last week snapped up Gers starlet Lewis Macleod in a cut-price deal, have also been credited with an interest in Peralta.

The 25-year-old has made just five appearances for Rangers this term and has not featured since the 4-0 horror show at Hibs.