JOSH McPAKE insists he has already been dazzled by Dundee after lapping up their impressive performance in Sunday’s narrow defeat against Aberdeen.
The Rangers wonder-kid met Dee boss James McPake at Dens Park ahead of the Betfred Cup clash as they ironed out the details of a season-long loan deal.
The gifted winger then took his place in the stand for the contest - and saw the Championship outfit more than match the Dons during a breathless encounter.
Aberdeen were on the verge of a chastening exit when Danny Johnson gave the hosts a first-half lead, only for Andrew Considine to dramatically equalise with 91 minutes on the clock. Sam Cosgrove settled the tie with an extra-time header.
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Nevertheless, McPake was heartened by the showing - and that sense of excitement has only been heightened after training with his new teammates this week.
“I met the manager before the Aberdeen game and I was really impressed by the match,” said the 17-year-old. “I thought Dundee were the better team so that was a real bonus for me.
“The first day went well and it was great to get in and meet the boys. They seem like a good bunch of lads. I’m raring to go now.
“Training was excellent, really sharp and a good session - so I’m looking forward to the game against Inverness on Saturday.”
Precocious McPake, Rangers’ academy player of the year last term, signed a new three-year deal at Ibrox in July and made his debut in the Europa League first qualifying round second leg against St Joseph’s.
It is now hoped that he will shine in the Championship.
“I heard about the interest last week when I was on my way down to London,” he continued. “I got a call from the Rangers loans manager Billy Kirkwood saying Dundee were keen on a loan for me.
“The manager seemed really keen to work with me. I immediately thought that was something I should think about.”
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McPake’s arrival takes Dundee’s tally of summer signings to 10, including the marquee capture of Kane Hemmings in the face of competition from the top-flight.
And James McPake has paid tribute to the support he has been given from the boardroom as they target a tilt at the title.
“I said when I initially got the Dundee job that I believed I would be backed,” said the Dee gaffer. “Of course, we are down a league so certain things need to be cut back - but they have supported every manager at this football club. That’s never been in question. They’ve done the same for me.
“I could have gone out earlier and brought in loads and loads of players, but I was desperate to get certain ones in.
“Kane Hemmings was one of those. To get that deal done on a permanent contract, when Premiership teams were after him, shows the backing John [Nelms] and Tim [Keyes] continue to put into our football club.”
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