McKay must wait to play for Rangers

Rangers have obtained a work permit for Matt McKay, although the Australian is unlikely to feature for his new club until next week.

The Scottish Football Association endorsed the application this afternoon, before being passed by the UK Border Agency. But the 28-year-old still needs to obtain a visa in Australia before making the journey to Scotland.

Manager Ally McCoist said yesterday he hoped the midfielder would be cleared in time to play in tomorrow’s Clydesdale Bank Premier League game against Motherwell.

However, it would now appear unlikely that McKay will be available for selection until next week’s game against Aberdeen.

A statement on the club’s official website read: “Rangers were successful today in gaining a work permit for Australian star Matt McKay but there is still some paperwork to be done before he can join up.”

McKay secured his move to Rangers from Brisbane Roar last week after a fee was agreed by both clubs.