Hearts coach John Rankin quits playing and aims to be a boss

Clyde midfielder says the time is right as he turns 37 to concentrate on off-field career

Midfielder John Rankin has been a key player for Clyde over the past two seasons, according to manager Danny Lennon, but has now decided to hang up his boots.

Hearts youth coach John Rankin has revealed his ambition to become a manager as he retires from playing.

The midfielder, who turns 37 today, spent the last two years with League One Clyde under Danny Lennon but will now focus on developing his 
coaching career.

He works with the Hearts Under-18s and reserve squad in a role which is highly valued at Riccarton. Rankin explained that management is part of his long-term future plans.

“The time feels right for me and my family to embark on the next chapter of our lives. Endeavouring to become the best coach or manager I can possibly be has to be my sole focus now,” he told the 
Clyde website.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Clyde for making me feel part of the club right from the off. As well as being my local club, Danny was one of the main reasons I came to the club.

“I hadn’t played part-time before and the opportunity to learn from someone with his experience and how to manage in that environment was important to me.

“He was always open with me and I appreciate that. I have taken a lot from him if I ever find myself in a similar position. The players are a great bunch and so together as a group, I wish them all the best for the future.

“My time at Clyde was hugely enjoyable and I’ll be back watching the lads at some point.”

Lennon praised Rankin’s leadership and attitude as a positive influence on the Clyde squad. “I want to express my thanks to John as he blows the final whistle on what has been a great playing career,” said the manager.

“During his time at Clyde his experience, leadership – on and off the pitch – and professionalism in all that he does has been invaluable to us.

“His presence on the pitch was missed for much of last season due to the injury he sustained a year ago whilst giving his all for the cause.

“Had he been available every week, I believe we would have finished a place or two higher in the league table. That’s how important he has been for us.

“I have no doubt that should he choose to progress into football coaching and management, he will carve out a tremendous career for himself on that front, as he has all the qualities to succeed.

“We thank him for his valuable contribution to Clyde FC and wish him every success.”

Rankin began his career under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United after being plucked from the Rangers youth system as a teenager.

United loaned him to the Brazilian club Corinthians at the age of 18 to allow him experience of a different culture.

He joined Ross County in 2003 and quickly became a mainstay, winning two player of the year awards before moving to Highland rivals Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

Rankin arrived in Edinburgh in 2008 for three years with Hibs before a five-year spell with Dundee United. Subsequent periods at Falkirk and Queen of the South preceded his move to Clyde in 2018.

He helped win promotion to League 1 via the play-offs in 2019 before injury sidelined him for much of last season. His last match was against Dumbarton on 7 March, when he scored in Clyde’s 2-0 win.

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