Kenny Miller names Rangers player that Michael Beale needs more of
Kenny Miller has insisted that James Tavernier is the type of player that Rangers need more of, in an interview with the Scottish Sun.
The three-time former Ibrox striker rounded on the doubters for the extent of criticism that is aimed at the captain, whilst acknowledging that he does make mistakes.
He also claimed that Tavernier “could easily” have returned to play in England over recent years but instead showed loyalty and commitment to stay in Glasgow.
The 69 times capped Scotland international made a thorough defence of his former teammate, pointing to his track record.
“Tav’s been at Rangers for eight seasons now and five of those he’s been captain”, he said.
“Could he have achieved more in his time? Sure. Of course he could have by winning more trophies but he was pivotal in leading the club out of the Championship. He then skippered the team to the vital title win and lifted the Scottish Cup.
“On top of that he was the catalyst in the run towards the Europa League final where Rangers were a kick of the ball away from winning it.
“So the thing I’d say about Tav is that Rangers actually need more players like him.
“When you think about it, too, he’s undoubtedly had opportunities to leave Rangers in the last eight years. He could easily have gone back down to England.”
Shared responsibility
It is hard to deny that Tavernier has not been a victim of his own success at Rangers, from an individual and collective perspective.
From his first season under Mark Warburton, it was clear that he was an attacking full-back and what an impact he has made in the seven years since then.
Miller is right to point out the highs – as well as the lows – that the former Newcastle and Wigan man has been part of, at Ibrox but due to his style, there are often doubts about his defensive ability and even his status as captain.
Tavernier still has at least another season to offer the club at right-back as first choice, beyond that he could move into a midfield role or to compete for his spot with a younger player.
Too often, there hasn’t been enough good players around the Yorkshireman to ease the burden of responsibility.
If Michael Beale can make that happen in the much-anticipated summer rebuild, it will be a win-win situation for all.
In other Rangers news, Chris Jack has identified this multi-million Ibrox candidate for a key sale this summer