Philippe Clement told what to do with James Tavernier at Rangers in new change
Philippe Clement should consider a positional switch for James Tavernier if he remains at Rangers next season as his “defensive deficiencies” continue to be exposed, Derek Ferguson has said.
The Gers captain reached 100 goals for the club last month and has been an excellent source of goals since moving to Ibrox in 2015.
However, the 32-year-old – who has been linked with a summer move to Al-Ettifaq, managed by ex-Gers boss Steven Gerrard – has often come in for criticism for his defending.
Former Rangers man Ferguson thinks that if Tavernier remains at Ibrox then the smartest move could be to try playing him further forward so that he is not as exposed defensively.
Speaking to Ibrox News, Ferguson said: “This (changing positions) is something that’s been talked about for a number of years with Tavernier.
“His defensive deficiencies have been obvious for a number of years. He switches off but sometimes he just comes to life going forward, the goals he scores.
“So there’s an argument as to why – not just the current manager, previous managers – have not played him further forward.
“I’d have liked to have seen him a different position further forward so he doesn’t need to worry about tracking back.“
Positional switch on the cards for James Tavernier at Rangers?
It is an interesting idea to try Tavernier further forward because he knows how to score goals and he is a regular provider of assists.
Moreover, it would mean that there is less onus on the experienced full-back to defend, an area where he has undoubtedly struggled.
However, you do wonder whether Tavernier – who might not even be here next season – might have missed his chance to ply his trade further forward.
What is for sure, though, Clement will leave no stone unturned figuring out how to get the best out of every player in his squad, not just Tavernier.
In other Rangers news, fans have every right to rage at Fabio Silva after what he did.
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