Rangers youngster Fraser Aird admits he is enduring a steep learning curve during his loan spell with Vancouver Whitecaps after being pitched straight into the starting XI - at right-back.

The Whitecaps shipped three goals in their opening game of the MLS campaign, with Aird struggling in his defensive role during a 3-2 defeat against Canadian rivals Montreal Impact.

Carl Robinson’s side followed that up with a 2-1 defeat against Sporting Kansas City, leaving them pointless heading into this weekend’s derby clash against Seattle Sounders; arguably the fiercest rivalry in US soccer.

And the 21-year-old is adamant he is adapting to his new role swiftly as he seeks to return to Rangers a better player next season.

Aird said: “It’s a hard adjustment and it’s a big challenge. But that is what I am here for. I’m at Vancouver to be tested and improve.

“In the game against Kansas I got forward and got a few ball into the box. Finding that balance of when to go forward and when to stay back is the challenge. The more I get used to the way Robbo [Robinson] wants me to play, the easier it will be.

“You need to think on the spot, it’s a lot harder and it is difficult. But I’m here and looking forward to the challenge. I know that the more games I play, the better I get. The improvement comes from experience.

“The only way you will improve is by playing. You can train all you want but it is totally different when you get into a game.”