Rangers handed James Tavernier fitness boost ahead of Celtic tie
Steven Gerrard has said that James Tavernier could feature in the Old Firm derby against Celtic on Saturday after a “good couple of days”.
After winning the league, Gerrard and his men will now be eyeing a double, and their chances of achieving that feat will have increased as their captain is in contention to feature in the Scottish Cup against Celtic.
However, he won’t be rushed back.
The right-back has been injured since February’s Europa League first-leg clash against Antwerp and returned to training last week.
Speaking after Rangers’ 2-1 win over Hibs, Gerrard said, as quoted by the Scottish Sun, “James has again had a good couple of days since we last spoke and he’s pushing hard to be involved at the weekend
“We’ll only do that if he is ready, we won’t force that. He’s been out too long for us to force that.
“He’ll have to show this week that there’s more progression and get him out amongst the team at some point if he’s to earn a place in the squad.”
Big boost but…
This would be some game for Gerrard to welcome one of his players of the season.
Any Old Firm derby, regardless of its stakes, is always personal, and always has both sets of fans excited for it.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the Gers are looking to win their first-ever double under Gerrard’s tutelage, and one cannot overstate Tavernier’s role in guiding the team to within touching distance of that feat.
He’s scored 11 league goals and assisted nine more – being a solid attacking threat down the right flank.
Defensively too, his performances have been noteworthy. Per WhoScored, the Englishman has averaged nearly two tackles per game along with 1.2 interceptions and as many clearances.
His dressing-room influence is another reason why he’s rated so highly by the players as well as the club hierarchy.
Speaking about how Tavernier has helped youngster Nathan Patterson flourish, Gerrard said, “James has gone out of his way to really look after Nathan and help him and support him, which is great for me to see.
“I think that’s James’ leadership evolving.”
We hope he can get himself 100% for the game.
In other Rangers news, ‘Concerning’, ‘Foot off the pedal’ – Super Fans slam one player despite 2-1 win v Hibs