Former Rangers player let go by EFL team without playing a game

Former Rangers F.C. goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin has officially been released by Middlesbrough F.C. after spending an entire season at the club without making a single first-team appearance.

The experienced goalkeeper’s departure was confirmed following the conclusion of Middlesbrough’s campaign, which ended in disappointment after defeat to Hull City A.F.C. in the Championship play-off final.

McLaughlin’s exit marks another frustrating chapter in the latter stages of his career, with the veteran shot-stopper having struggled for regular football during recent seasons despite his extensive experience in both Scotland and England.

The 38-year-old only joined Middlesbrough last summer after leaving Swansea City A.F.C., where opportunities had also been limited.

During his single season at Swansea, McLaughlin managed just one competitive appearance, featuring only in the FA Cup before departing at the end of the campaign.

Hoping for a fresh opportunity at Middlesbrough, the goalkeeper signed for the Teesside club ahead of the 2025/26 season. However, his time at the Riverside Stadium ultimately proved equally difficult.

McLaughlin Failed to Make a Single Appearance

Despite his experience and previous pedigree, McLaughlin was unable to force his way into Middlesbrough’s first-team plans throughout the entire season.

For much of the campaign, the former Rangers goalkeeper operated as either second-choice or third-choice goalkeeper within the squad.

Although he was regularly included among the substitutes during the first half of the season, he never received the opportunity to step onto the pitch.

McLaughlin spent the opening 30 Championship matches sitting on the bench as an unused substitute, watching on without making a single appearance.

As the campaign progressed, his involvement reduced even further.

Over the final 16 league fixtures of the season, the goalkeeper was no longer included in the matchday squad at all, effectively ending any realistic possibility of making his debut for Middlesbrough.

By the conclusion of the season, McLaughlin had completed an entire year at the club without playing a single minute of competitive football.

Middlesbrough Confirm Player Departures

Following the disappointment of losing in the play-off final to Hull City, Middlesbrough have now begun reshaping their squad ahead of next season.

The club officially confirmed several departures this summer, including McLaughlin among the players leaving when their contracts expire.

Middlesbrough announced the news through their official social media channels, thanking the departing players for their efforts during their time at the club.

The club’s statement read: “Good luck to Alex Gilbert, Sam Silvera, Darragh Lenihan, Jon McLaughlin, Marcus Forss and Dan Barlaser, who are all set to depart Boro at the end of their contracts this summer.”

The statement continued by expressing appreciation for the players’ contributions during their spells with the club.

“Thank you for all your efforts and dedication in a Boro shirt,” the message added.

McLaughlin’s departure means his spell at Middlesbrough comes to an end without him ever appearing in a competitive fixture for the club.

Difficult Recent Years for McLaughlin

The veteran goalkeeper has endured a challenging period during the closing stages of his playing career.

While McLaughlin previously enjoyed successful spells in both Scotland and England, opportunities have become increasingly limited over the past few years.

Before joining Middlesbrough, the goalkeeper spent a season with Swansea City, where he similarly struggled for game time.

At Swansea, he made only one appearance during the entire campaign, playing in the FA Cup while spending most of the season out of the starting picture.

The move to Middlesbrough was therefore viewed as a chance to revive his fortunes and potentially compete for regular football again.

Instead, his situation became even more difficult, as he failed to feature at all throughout the season.

For an experienced goalkeeper who has previously played regularly at a high level, going two consecutive seasons with almost no football represents a frustrating decline.

McLaughlin’s Time at Rangers

Despite the difficult ending to his recent career, McLaughlin remains fondly remembered by many Rangers supporters for his spell at Ibrox.

The goalkeeper joined Rangers from Sunderland A.F.C. in 2019.

During his time in Glasgow, McLaughlin made 46 appearances for the club across all competitions.

He often provided reliable cover in goal and played an important squad role during several successful seasons for Rangers.

Although he was not always the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, McLaughlin earned praise for his professionalism and consistency whenever called upon.

His experience also proved valuable within the dressing room during his years at the club.

The goalkeeper was part of Rangers squads competing domestically and in Europe, gaining valuable experience on major occasions throughout his spell in Scotland.

Career Built on Experience and Reliability

McLaughlin’s career has been built on persistence, reliability, and professionalism over many years in the game.

Before joining Rangers, he established himself as a respected goalkeeper during his time at Sunderland and other clubs throughout the English Football League.

He earned recognition for his calm presence, strong shot-stopping ability, and dependable performances under pressure.

Those qualities eventually earned him the move to Rangers, where he experienced some of the biggest moments of his career.

Even during recent seasons when opportunities became limited, McLaughlin continued to maintain a professional attitude while supporting teammates from behind the scenes.

That professionalism was again acknowledged by Middlesbrough in their farewell statement thanking him for his dedication.

Play-Off Final Disappointment for Middlesbrough

McLaughlin’s departure also comes after a painful conclusion to Middlesbrough’s season overall.

The club had been hoping to secure promotion to the Premier League through the Championship play-offs but ultimately fell short.

Their hopes ended with defeat against Hull City in the play-off final, denying Middlesbrough a return to the top flight.

Following that disappointment, the club have now started making decisions regarding the squad as preparations begin for another promotion push next season.

Several players are moving on as part of that process, including McLaughlin and midfielder Dan Barlaser, who spent the season on loan at Hibernian F.C..

The departures signal the beginning of what could be a busy summer for Middlesbrough as they attempt to strengthen their squad ahead of another Championship campaign.

Uncertain Future Ahead for McLaughlin

At 38 years old, questions will naturally arise regarding what comes next for McLaughlin following his release.

The goalkeeper still possesses significant experience and leadership qualities, but his lack of recent playing time may make securing another club more challenging.

Despite that, experienced goalkeepers are often valued for their influence within squads, particularly among younger players.

McLaughlin could still attract interest from clubs looking for an experienced backup goalkeeper or a strong dressing-room presence.

His extensive career across Scotland and England means he remains a respected figure within the game.

Whether he chooses to continue playing or begins considering coaching opportunities remains unclear at this stage.

Goalkeepers often extend their careers longer than outfield players, and McLaughlin may still feel capable of contributing at a competitive level if the right opportunity emerges.

Career Still Contains Memorable Moments

Although his recent seasons have been frustrating, McLaughlin’s overall career still contains many memorable moments and achievements.

Representing Rangers, competing in major competitions, and spending years playing professionally across the United Kingdom are accomplishments many footballers never experience.

Even though his time at Middlesbrough ultimately did not work out as hoped, the goalkeeper’s career should still be remembered for the consistency and professionalism he displayed over many years.

For now, McLaughlin joins the list of players leaving Middlesbrough this summer as both player and club prepare for new chapters ahead.

While his Riverside spell may have ended quietly and without a single appearance, his experience and reputation within British football remain firmly intact.