‘I judge him differently’ – Steven Gerrard makes claim about ‘sensational’ Rangers star
Rangers manager Steven Gerrard heaped praise on club captain James Tavernier after the Gers 4-0 win over Ross County on Sunday at Global Energy Stadium.
Tavernier scored a goal and provided an assist, taking his tally in the Scottish Premiership to 10 goals and seven assists so far this season.
The win meant that Rangers moved 13 points clear of Old Firm rivals Celtic at the top of the table, with Neil Lennon’s side drawing 1-1 with St Johnstone.
Speaking after the match, Gerrard said that he dos not only judge Tavernier on his performances but also on his attitude and professionalism.
“He was sensational and he deserves all of the plaudits,” he told Rangers’ official website.
“People will talk about the assists and the goals, and I think he deserves that. But I judge James differently – I judge him as soon as he walks through the door – what is he doing? Is he helping me set the standards? Is he professional in everything he does? Is he leading by example? Is he pushing the young lads? Is he making sure everyone is at it and the culture remains strong?
“This season, he has been absolutely fantastic. I can’t really be more proud of him. He has got to continue doing what he is doing as he is a massive help to me.”
Tavernier was outstanding once again on Sunday, providing a constant threat down the right flank. Not only did he score a goal and provide an assist, but he also caused the own goal with a testing ball into the box.
With Kemar Roofe tucked in on the right flank, Gerrard has this system geared towards getting Tavernier involved as an attacking threat. The right-back had 99 touches of the ball in total, taking four shots and completing one key pass (via WhoScored).
The 29-year-old has played every game in the league so far this season though and at some point, Gerrard will need to look at giving him a rest. With seven games before the end of December, the former England midfielder cannot overwork his star man, with Rangers fighting on multiple fronts for the rest of the season.
In other Rangers news, three things we learned from Rangers 3-2 win V Standard Liege