RANGERS have allowed Ross McCrorie to extend his loan deal at Portsmouth so the Scotland Under-21 captain can play in the League One play-offs.

The versatile defender will be available for the two legged semi-final against Oxford at the start of next month, and a potential final at Wembley on July 13.

Pompey boss Kenny Jackett is thrilled to have the 22-year-old at his disposal after his initial season-long agreement expired.

McCrorie has made 22 appearances for the Fratton Park outfit and Jackett is keen to recruit the player on a permanent deal this summer.

Jackett said: “All of the loan players are good to play in the play-off games - and should we get through to the final they are okay as well.

“Ross has been extended until the end of the play-offs and he played 45 minutes against Reading the other day.

“Rangers go back in August, but are happy for him to play for us. Now we have some dates, it is straightforward and we have no problems with the guys on loan.

“With the dates of the play-offs announced, parent clubs can now see where they are and what they are doing.

“There has generally also been an appetite from our loan lads to be able to stay – and that hasn’t changed.”

Despite being sidelined for most of last November with a hamstring injury, McCrorie recently admitted that he has been delighted about how his loan move has panned out.

He added: “I’ve enjoyed my time here. There was one big injury and then perhaps I came back a bit too soon from that.

“But I love the city and all the lads. The fans and coaching staff all welcomed me and I feel I’ve given a good account of myself.”