Jason Jones

Sat 20 June 2020 16:00, UK

We’re delighted to welcome former Scottish Premiership defender Alex Bruce as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Rangers…

Alex Bruce has claimed that Rangers captain James Tavernier must concentrate on recapturing his best form to win over the Ibrox fanbase again. 

Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, the former Kilmarnock defender suggested that constant transfer rumours can turn supporters off a player, but also argued that the situation is a salvageable one for the 28-year-old – despite his dip in form this season.

As recently as March, Football Insider reported that the full-back had made it known that he wishes to leave the Gers in the upcoming summer transfer window.

But Bruce believes that if the skipper does stay at Ibrox, he can still win supporters round if he proves that he is working hard to rekindle the form that initially made him a fan favourite in Glasgow.

Speaking to Ibrox News, he said: “When your players are constantly linked with moves, you’ve got to be careful. You can make a rod for your own back if you end up staying at a club where you’re at.

“He had a good rapport with the Rangers supporters, he got linked with a few clubs, suffered a dip in form, and football fans can be fickle. They can turn just as quickly as they take a shine towards somebody.

“He’s a good player, he’s been a good servant to Rangers, and I think the one thing that he’s got to do is concentrate on getting his form back to where it was in the past.

“Once he gets to them levels I’m sure the supporters will be back on side again, that’s for sure.”

Tavernier has struggled to produce his best work for the Gers during a patchy 2019/20 campaign.

The right-back has registered three goals and 15 assists this term – a marked decrease from his tally of 17 goals and 20 assists last season.

In other Rangers news, Report – Gers make approach for Haris Belkebla, formal bid could follow.