Neil Lennon baffled by what Rangers fans have done to James Tavernier at Ibrox
Neil Lennon says he doesn’t understand the “criticism” Rangers ace James Tavernier receives, describing his qualities going forward as “immense.”
Lennon was discussing the Rangers right-back during his appearance on PLZ Soccer’s ‘The Football Show’ (13 November).
When asked about the criticism of Tavernier, in particular, his defensive capabilities, Lennon came to the defence of the Englishman.
“I am a big fan, I like him and I don’t get the criticism. He is not the best defender, but what he gives you going forward is immense, and not just in your run-of-the-mill games, but in the big games as well.
“He is a big player and the supporting cast has let him down, rather than him letting them down.”
Irreplaceable
While some supporters might be right in suggesting that Tavernier could improve defensively, Lennon is right to come to the right-back’s defence, as the 32-year-old’s strengths certainly outweigh his weaknesses.
After all, his defensive shortcomings aren’t too much of an issue during domestic games. Rangers are a side who will spend the majority of their matches on the front foot and his contributions going forward are therefore irreplaceable.
While playing in Europe against opposition of higher quality, he might get caught out on some occasions, but he certainly does enough to make up for that and has provided the Gers with some special moments.
He scored seven goals during the club’s run to the UEFA Europa League final in the 2021/22 season, including one in the semi-final, which is a remarkable return for a right-back.
Overall Lennon is right, while Tavernier isn’t the perfect player, their are certainly others who are deserving of more criticism than him.
In other Rangers news, Aris Limassol could be without one key star for their Europa League clash with the Gers.