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Sir Kenny Dalglish drools over Rangers defender James Tavernier
Sir Kenny Dalglish has showered praise on Rangers defender James Tavernier, saying he has been “exceptional” on the European stage.
The Liverpool and Scotland legend feels that Tavernier will be important for this game, as he can provide quality deliveries for Antonio Colak or Alfredo Morelos.
Rangers drew 2-2 against PSV Eindhoven in the first leg at Ibrox. Dalglish says that PSV, who have the home advantage are “clear favourites” to go through to the next round.
“On the evidence of last Tuesday night’s game at Ibrox, I’d have to make PSV Eindhoven clear favourites to go through to the Champions League group stage,” wrote Dalglish for The Sunday Post.
“If Giovanni starts with Antonio – and it will be either him or Alfredo Morelos – then it’s vital to get good service into the penalty box.
“That’s where James Tavernier will, as ever, be important. The Rangers captain has been exceptional on the European stage, and another massive performance from him will be required.
“He has just signed a new contract, and it looks more and more likely he will see out his main years at Ibrox.
“It’s great to get your big players signed on long-term deals, every bit as important as it is to bring in new faces in the transfer market.”
Dilemma
Rangers were superb in Europe last season, and they earned some great victories.
However, most of the wins have come at home, and that’s why there’s scepticism about whether the Gers can beat the Dutch giants.
Ideally, the Bears would have loved to take a lead in the first leg, but they are still in the game.
Rangers lost Morelos through injury in the second half of the campaign, and that had an impact on their performances away from home.
However, with Morelos back into the side for the big game, the Gers have nothing to fear.
The problem is Morelos doesn’t seem fit enough, and Van Bronckhorst has hardly used him. Antonio Colak has played regularly, further fuelling doubts over his long-term future.
Probably, Van Bronckhorst has been waiting to use him for the right moment. If he doesn’t feature in Holland, surely his future will come under intense speculation.
In other Rangers news, this Ibrox star has been dubbed as a realistic late summer signing for Aston Villa.