Rangers have completed the signing of Australian international Cammy Devlin on a free transfer after the midfielder left Hearts. The 28-year-old becomes the third high-profile arrival from Tynecastle this summer, following striker Lawrence Shankland and manager Derek McInnes, as Rangers look to build a squad capable of reclaiming the Scottish Premiership title.
Defensive Midfield Steel
Devlin’s standout attribute is his defensive work rate. Last season, he led the Scottish Premiership in tackles per 90 minutes, while ranking second among midfielders for interceptions, second for defensive contributions, and third for recoveries. These numbers paint the picture of a tenacious ball-winner who thrives in disrupting opposition attacks. McInnes, who managed Devlin at Hearts, highlighted his consistency, saying:
"His levels of consistency for me were superb, and he is the type of player that every manager wants in his team."
For a Rangers side that often faces deep blocks, Devlin’s ability to win second balls and shield the backline will be crucial in preventing counter-attacks and recycling possession quickly.
Passing Under Pressure
Some Rangers fans have questioned whether Devlin is comfortable enough on the ball for a team that dominates possession. However, the statistics tell a different story. Only four Premiership midfielders completed more accurate passes per 90 minutes than Devlin last term—one of them being current Rangers playmaker Nicolas Raskin. This suggests Devlin is more than a pure destroyer; he can also keep the ball moving efficiently. His ability to operate as a deep-lying distributor offers McInnes tactical flexibility, potentially freeing Raskin or another partner to push forward.
A Core of Familiar Faces
Devlin’s seamless transition is aided by the presence of former Hearts colleagues. Having already played under McInnes and alongside Shankland, he understands the system and expectations. This familiarity could accelerate his integration into the dressing room and on the pitch. Devlin himself spoke of the appeal:
"With the gaffer coming here and a lot of change happening at the club, it feels like a great time to be coming here. I am so aware, having been in Scotland for a while now, of the size of the club and everything that comes with playing for such a massive football club."
His five years at Hearts—171 appearances, eight goals—provided a deep knowledge of the Scottish game, and his experience at the 2026 World Cup with Australia, even without minutes, adds international pedigree.
Key Takeaways
- Devlin is an elite ball-winner who topped the league in tackles per 90 and ranked highly in interceptions and recoveries, immediately strengthening Rangers’ midfield shield.
- Contrary to doubts about his technical ability, his passing accuracy placed him among the top midfielders in the Premiership, making him a viable deep-lying playmaker.
- His existing relationships with McInnes and Shankland should speed up adaptation, and his Scottish football experience means no learning curve.
- The two-year contract with an option for a third year represents a low-risk, high-reward investment on a free transfer.
- Fans calling for the club to sign proven Premiership talent are getting their wish, as Rangers continue to recruit the league’s top performers without transfer fees.
Quick Facts
Age: 28
Nationality: Australian
Previous Club: Hearts
2025/26 Premiership Stats: Most tackles per 90; 2nd in interceptions (midfielders); 3rd in recoveries (midfielders)
Contract: Two-year deal with an option for an additional 12 months
