Glasgow Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has revealed that Lewis Mayo will likely go out on loan this coming season, but only after the 'Gers have been able to bring in a replacement for the injured Nikola Katic.

The Croatian centre-back suffered a damaging training injury which will see him sidelined for the foreseeable future, and that could well see Mayo step up to be a part of Gerrard's plans for the new season. He featured in the Veolia Trophy but, with just three competitive appearances to his name, he needs to play more regularly.

Gerrard has acknowledged this and says he wants him to go out on loan, but only once a replacement is in. He explained:

"I need to replace Katic because I need four good centre-halves if we are looking at what we are hoping is going to be another 60-game season.

"We love Mayo. His attitude has been fantastic and he has a really good chance.

"But I think he needs game time rather than to be number four centre-back.

"We will keep him in until we get the right one in and then we will look to Lewis out to get him 30 games for his development.

"But I have to be selfish with Lewis in the short term."

Losing £1.44m-valued Katic is a blow for Gerrard. The 27-year-old made 19 appearances in the Premiership last term and featured the most at centre-back after Connor Goldson. Whilst Mayo may be an exciting talent, it is surely too early into his professional career for him to step right into the starting XI.

Some time away from Ibrox, allowing him to play regular first-time football, should benefit all involved. Hopefully Gerrard will bring in that replacement for Katic sooner rather than later.

'Gers fans, is Gerrard right to seek a loan move for Mayo rather than throwing him straight into the fray? Let us know what you think by commenting below!