Rangers winger Josh McPake reckons getting out of his comfort zone in Scotland has been great for his development as he encouraged other youngsters to take the plunge down south.
The 20-year-old from Coatbridge joined English League Two side Tranmere Rovers earlier this month after spending the first half of the season at Morecambe under former Motherwell boss Stephen Robinson.
He joined the Shrimps at the start of the season after a successful spell at League Two Harrogate Town, in which he lifted the FA Trophy at Wembley.
Before his venture into England McPake had previously been sent out on loan to Dundee and Morton, but he believes getting away from familiar surroundings in his homeland has paid off.
He signed a contract extension with Rangers until 2024 at the turn of the year before joining Micky Mellon's Rovers.
And he told Rovers' club website: “When I was up in Scotland on loan, it was about taking that jump to move away from Scotland and my home.
"For me, it was well worth it.
"I’ve loved it since I moved. For any young player up in Scotland, I don’t think there is anything better.
"I have settled in pretty well and have been getting on well with all the staff and the boys.
“The gaffer has put a lot of trust in me by throwing me in straight away after not a lot of game time in the last six months due to injury. I owe him a lot for that and have enjoyed my time so far.
“It’s easier now, compared to when I first went to Harrogate.
"At that time, I wasn’t really used to the league or the physicality and pace of it. I have got to terms with it now.”
Since joining the Whites, McPake has made three appearances against Scunthorpe, Salford City and Rochdale.
It's been an unbeaten start for the Gers kid with a 4-0 over Scunthorpe on his debut, followed by a 1-1 draw with City and a 2-0 win at home to Rochdale.
Tomorrow his side, who are second in League Two, travel to Crawley Town and he added: "The team are going for promotion, and there’s no better club to be at in the league given the fans and the way the club wants to go.
"I am very pleased with my decision."
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