Michael Stewart slams Rangers fans' criticism of James Tavernier live on BBC
BBC Sportscene pundit Michael Stewart has slammed Rangers fans for their criticism of James Tavernier, calling it "lazy" and "harsh" after the Gers captain scored twice in the win against St Mirren.
Fans had been criticising Tavernier for his performances and failing to step up during the team's struggles so far this season, but former Hibernian and Hearts midfielder Stewart was not having it.
The pundit questioned why, of all the players on the pitch, the right-back would be the one most heavily criticised despite, as he claims, being one of the team's best performers.
Speaking live on BBC Sportscene [8 October, 19:49], Stewart declared: "I don't know whether it's just familiarity and the fact that he's the captain and has been there for such a long period of time that he gets it in the neck but, certainly for me, he is unquestionably one of their main performers.
"He's been there long enough that he knows what the expectations are, I don't see him failing to deliver as often as many others, I think he is a genuine leader.
"I think it's harsh on him, the criticism that's levelled at him. The lazy criticism is obviously that defensively it's not his strong point, but I think to a great extent over the years that has been, not eradicated, but it's been limited.
"The strengths, the positives of his game have come to the fore much more. I don't think James Tavernier is the one that they should be looking at when they're levelling criticism at the team.
"I think it's quite clearly elsewhere that's not coming up to the standards."
He hasn't stepped up
As much as Stewart is right in what he's saying, in terms of Tavernier being one of Rangers' most consistent performers over the years, and his attacking talent shining in the number of goals he scores, it's also true that he hasn't stepped up when needed so far this season.
Rangers' struggles and inconsistent performances have been outlined by every player on the pitch. The only consistent performer so far this season has been Jack Butland, and arguably Abdallah Sima, while Tavernier has been one to fade into the background.
This doesn't just go for on the pitch but off it too. When questioned by fans following the defeat to Aberdeen, which ultimately saw Michael Beale sacked, Tavernier couldn't get away fast enough, while new arrival Butland was the one to front up to the criticism [The National, 2 October].
The fans displayed a banner before the St Mirren clash which read: "Heartless. Passionless. Leaderless. Not fit to wear our colours." A statement that Tavernier clearly fell into.
In other Rangers news, a domino effect may have begun after recent manager news.