Coatbridge-born James Gallagher signed for the Bhoys in September 1929 after turning out for Coatbridge Emerald and Shettleston Celtic.

The centre-half made his debut at Ibrox in place of the flu-stricken Willie McStay but the Bhoys went down 1-0 to Rangers after conceding a late goal. He played the next week in a 4-0 home victory over Hibs but never went on to make another competirive senior appearance.

After several loan spells he was eventually released in May 1932.