Rangers: Sky Sports pundit raves over James Tavernier after what he did v Celtic
Kris Boyd has been blown away by James Tavernier, especially post his goal in the Rangers v Celtic Old Firm derby.
The two Glasgow sides played out a 3-3 draw on 7 April at Ibrox and Tavernier atoned for his mistake for Celtic’s opener by scoring at the other end.
Boyd, a Sky Sports pundit, believes he deserves to be the Player of the Season.
He wrote in the Scottish Sun on 13 April: “His overall importance to the club, season after season, cannot be downplayed. Week after week, he churns out big performances and weighs in with important strikes.
“His record is incredible. It’s not normal for right-backs to bag 23 in a season — and counting. Tavernier broke the all-time British scoring record for a defender recently and there will be more to come.
“His penalty against Celtic last Sunday was another crucial moment from him. But it’s also his goals from open play and his ability to step up when Rangers have needed him that stand out.
“Think back to the St Mirren game in October when Rangers didn’t have a manager. Paisley was a tough venue, Saints hadn’t lost there at that point and the visitors were in free-fall, but Tavernier scored twice in a 3-0 win to calm things down.
“Look, he has flaws. I’ve spoken about them often enough and there are clearly times when he could defend better.
“Yet he has helped drag Rangers back into the title race and will be key to their chances of winning the championship.”
James Tavernier is a living Rangers legend
Tavernier’s impact at Ibrox cannot be overstated.
As highlighted by Boyd, Tavernier’s record-breaking season, scoring 23 goals as a right-back has been nothing short of incredible.
His contributions extend beyond goals, as he has demonstrated leadership qualities and the ability to step up in crucial moments.
Tavernier’s recent breaking of the all-time British scoring record for a defender further cements his legacy as one of Gers’ greatest players.
His importance to the club is evident in his consistent performances and his knack for scoring important goals, including a crucial penalty against Celtic.
The 32-year-old’s ability to perform under pressure showcases his mental fortitude and his role as a pivotal player for Philippe Clement.
Despite his defensive shortcomings, Tavernier’s overall contribution to the team and his ability to inspire and lead make him a vital component in Gers’ pursuit of the title.
As Rangers aim to knock Celtic off their perch this season, Tavernier’s leadership and goalscoring prowess will be crucial and hopefully, they win it for him.
In other Rangers news, a pundit has issued a claim on a player’s salary with a first-team Ibrox exit possible this summer.
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