James Tavernier makes ‘daunting’ admission ahead of Man United v Rangers
James Tavernier has described his only experience at Old Trafford as “daunting” as Rangers prepare to face Manchester United.
Rangers travel to Manchester on Thursday evening (23 January) to face the Red Devils in the Europa League, with Tavernier in line to make his first appearance at Old Trafford since 2012.
That was back when the Light Blues star was a Newcastle United player, which Tavernier has reflected on ahead of the clash, while also admitting the Gers need to stick to their gameplan if they are to secure a result.
In quotes reported by BBC Sport [23 January], Tavernier said: “It was in the Capital One Cup and I lost – so I’d like to come here and get a good win. I’m really excited.
“I was young and it was obviously a little bit daunting coming to Man United. I’m well experienced now so you sort of block a lot more noise out and just focus on the game.
“This competition has always been good for us, rising to big challenges. Obviously, what United have done lately in conceding early, we’re just going to stick to our gameplan and try to get right in their faces, try to get after them.”
Rangers can use ‘daunting’ Old Trafford atmosphere to their advantage
Of course, when Tavernier last played at Old Trafford, the “daunting” part was predominantly fixated on the away side with Manchester United, back then, showcasing their solid home form and all-round quality.
However, things have changed over the last few years and the prospect of playing at The Theatre of Dreams will be more of a concern to the Red Devils than it will be to Rangers.
United are enduring a horrid season and that is something the Gers, who have performed well in Europe, need to take full advantage of.
Providing the Gers can start the game well and frustrate United, that will spill into the crowd, who will become increasingly concerned. That in turn spills back onto the pitch and affects the performance, which will only be a positive for Philippe Clement’s side.
Rangers have more than enough within them to secure a result, and if they stick to the basics and execute their plan to perfection, there is no reason why they can’t come away with all three points.
In other Rangers news, Jamie O’Hara fired a dig at the Light Blues live on air.
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