Philippe Clement has long-spoken about his vision for Rangers’ squad, that his plan is to sign up excellent young players, turn them into asset squad members and sell for a profit.

The January window was evidence of this, with three young players coming in, all 22 or younger, and it’s clear Clement’s plan is going into action.

But his announcement today that 30-year-old John Lundstram, who doesn’t strictly fit into this younger trade model and policy, will sign a new deal, suggests the manager not only rates the former Sheffield man very highly indeed, but that the squad age reduction policy isn’t at the cost of dumping quality experienced players.

There’s been a standoff between Lunny, his agent and the club over a new deal, but while Ibrox Noise suggested perhaps Clement might step in and help things over the line a bit, we acknowledged that really wasn’t for him to do.

And yet his certainty today that Lunny will extend his terms with Rangers hints he may actually have had a little word or two in someone’s ear to move this stalemate along.

Even more tellingly, despite Lunny’s advancing years, Clement very much has him as a complete stormtrooper, a 100% starter under him and the Belgian doesn’t want to lose his enforcer.

Indeed, while trying to reduce the age, Clement clearly also wants to keep some experience in there, especially quality experience – he evidently counts Lunny and Butland among those, along with Tavernier and Goldson, whether fans agree with them all or not.

But the eagerness Clement had in saying Lunny will stay shows his new trade model isn’t a complete veto of any player over 25 and who can add something to the team.

Sure, he may not sign too many over that age, but his first admission of the importance of Lundstram shows a player doesn’t need to be a whippersnapper to be an important part of Clement’s team going forward.

If he has his way, Lunny will be here for a long time yet.