SELKIRK manager Garry O'Connor believes signing Rangers starlet Ross King is a statement of intent from his club.

The younger brother of Swansea City star, Adam, and Heart of Midlothian midfielder, Billy, has agreed terms at Yarrow Park.

And the 17-year-old will be included in the squad for Saturday's Lowland League clash with Preston Athletic.

O'Connor told the Border Telegraph: "Although Ross has come through the development academies at Rangers and Livingston he's never had many opportunities to play in competitive matches.

"I have spoken with him and his family and they agree that by stepping down to Selkirk, it will give him the chance to play at a good level each week and develop his game.

"I hope to have Ross with us for the next couple of seasons and then he can step up to a bigger club again.

"Signing Ross is a statement of where we want to go with Selkirk - I'm hoping there will be a few other good young players coming our way in the next week or two."

King follows former Scotland Under 21s and Dundee United star David Robertson to Yarrow Park.

Robertson has now recovered from injury and is also expected to feature on Saturday.

O'Connor added: "We should be close to full strength for Saturday and the boys are looking sharp in training.

"We're just desperate for the game to go ahead."

Gala Fairydean Rovers are in East of Scotland Qualifying Cup action on Saturday when they make the journey down to Raydale Park to face Gretna.