Rankine rejoined former club Barrow in August 2005 on a one-month loan, and after scoring two goals, the loan was extended for a second month in September. During the second month, he was recalled by Scunthorpe, due to injuries at the club, meaning he finished the loan period with 11 appearances and three goals. He was reported to have joined Lincoln City on trial in December, but this claim was rejected by Lincoln manager Keith Alexander. Following the expiry of his Scunthorpe contract on 9 December 2005, he later joined Conference National club Altrincham on trial and scored for their reserve team.
