‘Could be time’ for ‘Ibrox furniture’ James Tavernier to depart Rangers – journalist
James Tavernier’s time at Rangers may be up as an alternate could be sought under a new manager, according to Ross Pilcher.
Writing for the Daily Record (6 October), the journalist noted the right-back’s often contentious time at Ibrox but claimed that no challengers to his starting spot have come close to displacing Tavernier.
Tavernier has been at the club for seven seasons, joining when Rangers were in the second division in 2015/16 and has been captain since 2018.
Pilcher wrote: “The captain is part of the Ibrox furniture but has long split opinion. A phenomenal goal return from right-back has often been offset by questions over his defensive abilities, particularly at the top level. Now there’s even an online petition from irked fans to remove him from the club’s Hall of Fame.
“Just about every right-back signed to challenge him has screamed backup at best. But it could be time for a legit alternative when the new boss eventually sits in the hot seat.”
Divisive
Opinions have been split on the captain. That being said, he has been a standout performer this season in a chronically underperforming Rangers side.
Any new manager who comes in to replace Michael Beale, be it Frank Lampard, Pascal Jansen or Kevin Muscat, will naturally want to have their stamp on the squad. No one is safe from being dropped and anyone could get a chance.
Typically, the captain of the side would normally be spared, but given the chaos and disorganization in Glasgow at the moment, no one will be holding their breath. That being said, Tavernier has undoubtedly been a solid performer for the Gers.
With 37 league goals in the last three seasons, from right-back, the Englishman has frequently had a direct impact on games. Often, his defensive capabilities are left wanting, so if a new manager desires a typical defender in his position, he could see his time at Ibrox come to an end.
He will still have until at least January to impress the new boss, but whoever is brave enough to take the role will have to be cut throat.
In other Rangers news, one man is said to be “advancing” on the job after three sets of talks with the Ibrox hierarchy already.