Falkirk manager Ray McKinnon has admitted they would love to keep Zak Rudden after the striker’s loan deal came to an end.

Rudden has hit the net eight times this season since joining from Rangers – and McKinnon is hopeful of getting him back soon.

With the Bairns languishing near the bottom of the Championship keeping Rudden could be key to their survival.

Picture by Mark Runnacles/Getty

McKinnon confirmed talks were ongoing with the Ibrox giants to bring Rudden back to the Falkirk Stadium.

“He has been recalled,” McKinnon the Falkirk Herald.

“But we are speaking to Rangers to see if something can be worked out.

“We’d love to extend his deal.”

Rudden has been vital for the Bairns – they haven’t won a game that he hasn’t scored in.

Falkirk could ease some of the pressure on them when they face tenth-placed Partick Thistle on Saturday



With only a point separating the two, McKinnon’s side could be bottom by Saturday night.

A four-point gap to eighth-placed Alloa adds even more importance to Saturday’s clash.



Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty

Heavy competition for places at Ibrox mean it should be a no-brainer for the striker to go out on loan.

Continuing his development with regular games – as well as the experience of playing in important games – benefits all sides.

After already overseeing a number of arrivals and departures this month, keeping Rudden might just prove to be the most important.

