Rankine joined Chelsea as an Under-14 from Cambridge United and has been utilised as a full-back, a wing-back, and as a winger during his time in the Academy at Cobham.

Last season, the 20-year-old featured regularly for the Development Squad under Mark Robinson. But the Barnet-born youngster will now continue his development in the Football League.

Rankine’s loan to Exeter will provide his first taste of senior football. The Grecians finished 14th in League One last term.