James Sands has criticised the standard of opposition he faced in the Scottish Premiership as he prepares to make return to international football with the United States.

Sands’ 18-month loan spell at Rangers was cut short when he returned to New York City in the MLS last month.

Rangers had an option to buy the defensive midfielder as part of the 22-year-old’s deal but, with game-time expected to be limited under Michael Beale, Sands himself expressed a desire to return to the States early.

He has since praised Rangers and their supporters but, following a call-up to the US squad to face Mexico in a friendly on Thursday, the youngster has claimed he faces a greater test playing in his homeland than he did in his 24 games in the Scottish Premiership.

Speaking of the demands of playing in the MLS, he said: “I really look forward to those sorts of challenges.

“That's something that I get here in MLS that I didn’t get at all, really, in Scotland in the league there. So it’s a nice change. 

“Those guys [opposition players] will get the better of me sometimes, but it’s all about learning.

“I’m still a young player, and I’m trying to improve, so those are night-shifts I really look forward to.”

Sands last played for the US in the 4-1 victory over Honduras in September 2021 and was last in a match-day squad in March last year.

He added to the New York City website: “It’s good. I’ve been out of the national team for a little bit now, so it’s nice to have another opportunity. 

“It’s just a couple days I’m there, so I just have to give it everything. 

“I think I’ve worked really hard over the last couple months, so I’m very excited.”

Meanwhile, Rangers boss Michael Beale has talked up midfielder Todd Cantwell ahead of this weekend's trip to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen.

He said: “Todd’s playing well. There’s more to come.

“I’m going to stay on him and make sure we get the player that is within him — one that he deserves to show everyone will ultimately help Rangers moving forward.

“When he’s in and around the box, I’d like to see him put his laces through one or two and not be so soft in his shooting.

“Having said that, he is doing well. I don’t want to seem like Mr Grumpy, but I want more from him.

“I see it, it’s there, so why would I not demand more from him? Why would he not demand more from himself?

“That’s what he needs from me and he’s not the only one. The crowd seem to like him and he’s collecting the man of the match awards. He’s the crowd’s favourite right now.

“When you go into the market you want your players that you bring in to have a big impact on the team.

“With Nico, you can see he blows up a bit physically. He’s just a young boy but puts so much effort in to his game.

“Todd’s the same. They’re not only good footballers but they energise the rest of the team.

“I’m looking for those two to kick on even further after a good pre-season and I want to add some players for them to go on a journey with here”.