James Tavernier in ‘sensational’ Celtic claim after what he’s done at Rangers
James Tavernier has spent the last decade at Rangers, but that hasn’t stopped one manager from associating him with Celtic in a sensational claim.
The right-back has been one of the most influential figures at Ibrox over the years, having captained the Bears for several years now.
Tavernier has had his critics at Ibrox, though, with some fans wanting to see a change regarding the veteran defender.
The 33-year-old lost his place at one point in the current campaign, but he has been a regular in recent matches, providing an assist as the Glaswegian outfit beat Kilmarnock 4-2 at Rugby Park on Wednesday (27 February).
Tavernier only Rangers player to make Celtic team
Tavernier is the only Rangers player who would get into the Celtic team, Steve Evans says.
The Rotherham United manager believes the right-back would be sensational for the Hoops.
Evans revealed that he’s already told the 33-year-old he would be a good fit at Parkhead despite Alistair Johnston being terrific for Brendan Rodgers.
Speaking to The Scottish Sun (27 February), the Scotsman said: “[Tavernier] would be good at Celtic. I’ve told him that. Can you imagine him playing in that team? If you picked the best of the Celtic team and the best of the Rangers team, for me, there’s only one player in the Rangers team who gets into the Celtic team.
“Johnston’s terrific, but Tavernier would be sensational in that Celtic team. He’s phenomenal, although defensively he can improve.”
Ibrox faithful recognise quality of Tavernier
Tavernier has been one of the best players at Ibrox, but his time at the Gers seems to be coming to an end after what has happened this season.
The 33-year-old has been a shadow of his former self, and while the fans appreciate what he has done over the years, it’s arguably time for a change.
Ridvan Yilmaz came on as a substitute against Kilmarnock on the right, pushing Tavernier central, and provided a game-changing assist for Cyriel Dessers.
Barry Ferguson has stuck by Tavernier as his captain, but after an underwhelming campaign, the Englishman shouldn’t continue with the armband next season.
| Competition | Matches | Goals | Assists |
| Scottish Premiership | 275 | 74 | 80 |
The defender’s record at the Glaswegian outfit is fantastic, and finding a replacement for him will evidently be challenging.
With the Light Blues suffering a humiliating defeat against Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup at Ibrox, it’s time for drastic decisions to be made.
Patrick Stewart and Nils Koppen should be ruthless next summer by getting rid of players who don’t have a future at the Bears.
While Tavernier has shown immense quality in the past, he’s no longer the same.