Michael Beale insists Rangers have "a heck of a player" in youngster Bailey Rice and he cannot wait to see him make an impact.

The Englishman was speaking after his side's 1-0 victory over Real Betis in the Europa League and he had nothing but good things to say about the Ibrox youth prospect.

Rice recently signed a contract extension with Rangers, after making his debut for the club last season, and has been a regular part of the B team.

Beale said: "I'm telling you we have got a heck of a player in Bailey Rice. He is 16, he is not 17 until the end of the month.

"When I introduce him to this madhouse, and my protection of him is important, but I am telling you he is ready."

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The Rangers boss also waxed lyrical about goalkeeper Jack Butland, calling him "a fantastic player".

He made several crucial saves in the win over Real Betis and Beale is thankful for his contribution to the team so far.

"At this level you need that, I think we signed a fantastic goalkeeper and he wanted to come here and show everybody his true level," he continued. 

"He's been frustrated in the last few years not playing as much and I think he's already shown in his short time here he's a fantastic keeper."