Shankland could be Rangers captain after 'coup' - Hendry

There is "a very high possibility" Lawrence Shankland will be handed the captain's armband should he complete his move to Rangers from Hearts, according to former Ibrox centre-half Colin Hendry.

The 30-year-old Scotland striker is expected to make the switch despite agreeing a new contract last summer at Tynecastle, where he has worn the skippers' armband.

Speaking at Hampden Park as he helped launch next month's Refugee World Cup, Hendry said: "He's more than equipped to lead and and that would be a statement right away.

"I would think there'd be a very high possibility of him becoming the captain. I think if you were to talk about how well he did at Hearts in that role then I think a lot of people would say that he's been successful and able to cope with that and everything that's thrown at you in relation to that position and that situation."

As much as Hendry is confident Shankland will thrive it Ibrox, he nonetheless says "it's a shock" to see the move so close to completion so quickly after the end of the domestic season.

"First of all, he'd re-signed for Hearts last season," the former Scotland defender added. "I've spoken to a couple of people there that know more about it and there was a clause that he could leave.

"It would be Danny Rohl's first signing of the summer window and I think it would be great for Rangers. He would be a great asset to Rangers if they get the signature.

"To get him signed prior to going to the World Cup would be good as well because everybody's at ease and then you know it's finished - you know it's all tied up. It's a big, big coup for Rangers. "