Portsmouth return for Rangers' Ross McCrorie unlikely despite Kenny Jackett's interest

The News understands the versatile talent is keen to find himself a permanent home in Scotland following his season-long loan at Fratton Park.

Arriving from Rangers last summer, McCrorie made 23 appearances as the Blues’ League One promotion push fell short at Oxford in the play-off semi-finals.

The Scotland under-21 captain made a favourable impression on Kenny Jackett and his backroom staff, who converted him from a holding midfielder to a right-back midway through the campaign.

Jackett has been keen for McCrorie to return to the south coast on a temporary basis as he plots another promotion push.

As things stand, James Bolton is Pompey’s only current senior right-back option heading into the upcoming season, with Haji Mnoga, 18, serving as deputy.

However, McCrorie’s preference is to stay north of the border – either at Rangers or elsewhere if it means he’ll get regular minutes under his belt.

The 22-year-old has been down the pecking order since returning to Ibrox following his time at PO4.

He was left out of Steven Gerarrd’s match-day squad for the Gers’ 1-0 curtain-raiser victory at Aberdeen on Saturday.

Scottish Premiership outfit Hibernian have been linked with a move for McCrorie.

Hibs manager Jack Ross tried to hijack McCrorie’s move to Pompey when in charge of Sunderland – although it proved futile.

Two other clubs are also understood to be admirers.