Former Scotland Under-21 international Adam Devine has been handed the opportunity to reignite his career after signing for Airdrieonians, bringing an end to a spell without a club following his departure from Rangers last summer.
The Diamonds confirmed the arrival of the 22-year-old right-sided defender this week, with Devine putting pen to paper at The Albert Bartlett Stadium.
Airdrie’s statement described their new recruit as a player with “real quality and energy” and framed the move as a fresh start after a challenging period away from the game.
Devine spent four years around Rangers senior squad after progressing through the club’s youth system, making 11 first-team appearances in total and featuring regularly for Rangers B during their spell in the Lowland League.
His senior debut came in May 2022, when he replaced captain James Tavernier late on in a Premiership victory over Dundee United, just before Rangers UEFA Europa League final appearance in Seville.
Despite early promise, Devine’s pathway at Ibrox became increasingly blocked.
Loan spells with Brechin City and Partick Thistle early and Motherwell and Queen’s Park towards the tail end of his time at Ibrox, offered valuable experience but little long-term stability.
Under former Rangers manager Philippe Clement, Devine fell out of favour and spent much of his final 18 months contracted to the club away on loan.
On the international stage, his pedigree is clear. Devine has represented Scotland at Under-16, Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 level, earning eight caps with the U21s and developing a reputation as a powerful, athletic full-back capable of operating high up the pitch.
Speaking upon signing, Devine was keen to emphasise his hunger to make the most of his chance.
“I’m delighted to be here, and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” he said.
“I can’t wait to get started, and I look forward to getting out there to showcase what I can do in front of the fans.”
Airdrieonians head coach Aaron Taylor-Sinclair echoed that optimism, highlighting both the player’s quality and his mindset after time away from competitive football.
“After a challenging spell out of the game, he’s fully focused and excited for this opportunity,” he said.
“We believe this is a fresh start for Adam.”
A boyhood Rangers supporter, Devine previously spoke of his pride at pulling on the Ibrox jersey, telling The Herald in 2023: “As a young boy it is what you dream of.”
That dream may have stalled, but his move to Airdrie offers a clear route back to regular football and relevance.
He becomes the final player released by Rangers last summer to secure a new club, following academy graduates such as Lewis Budinauckas (Partick Thistle), Kerr Robertson (Morton) and Kristian Webster (Dumbarton), while goalkeeper Jacob Pazikas made a surprise move to the UAE with Rimal Al-Sahra.
Previously linked with Ayr United, managed by former Celtic captain Scott Brown, Devine has instead chosen Airdrie as the setting for his reset.
Off the pitch, he also carries a notable family legacy - his grandfather, Sydney Devine, sold more than 15 million records worldwide.
For Airdrie, it is a low-risk move with clear upside. For Devine, it is a chance to turn the page and reignite his career.