HIBS defender Kyle McClelland has joined Cove Rangers on loan.

The ex-Rangers youth player will spend the remainder of the campaign with the Championship side.

He joined the Hibees from the Ibrox club this summer. 

But Lee Johnson has allowed for the Northern Ireland U21 star to go out on loan to aid in his development.

Manager Jim McIntyre said:“Kyle’s young, he’s hungry; he’s exactly the type of player I have been looking to get on board. He could have stayed at Rangers, but he took the decision to leave because he wanted to play more football. He’s had a taste of it with Hibs, and now he sees Cove as a chance to build on that.

“He’s quick, a very good passer, he’s happy to get in tight against opposing attackers, he’s good on the ball and in the air.

“As much as anything, Kyle gives us really good options and increases competition for places, which every manager wants.

“Like the other young players I have signed, he will have the chance to learn from the excellent professionals we have here, experienced guys like Mitch Megginson, Fraser Fyvie, Iain Vigurs and especially, given the position he plays, Mark Reynolds.

“It’s a move that should be of great benefit to Kyle, and to the club, and I look forward to working with him.”