James Tavernier ‘to see out Rangers contract’ after transfer developments at Ibrox
James Tavernier could potentially see out his contract at Rangers despite talks of an Ibrox exit last summer.
The 33-year-old has spent a decade at the Gers and may yet play a significant role in the upcoming campaign as the search for a new head coach carries on.
Kevin Thelwell is looking for Barry Ferguson’s replacement at the Light Blues after the interim manager wasn’t deemed the right person to lead them next season.
Tavernier’s contract at Ibrox expires at the end of the season, and rather than cashing in on him, the Glaswegian outfit may look to keep the veteran defender.
Rangers to keep Tavernier to maintain squad depth
Tavernier may continue at the Gers in the upcoming campaign to maintain squad depth, Joshua Barrie says.
The Scottish journalist expects there to be less noise around the 33-year-old’s departure from Ibrox next summer as the Gers will need to keep some people around.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 53 | 5 | 13 |
Barrie feels the Englishman’s case won’t be similar to last year, when the Light Blues wanted to move him on and get a fee.
Speaking on the Rangers Review (24 May), the journalist said: “Unlike last summer, I expect there to be less noise around Tavernier’s future because rather than trying to move him on and get money, something the club wanted to last season in terms of getting a fee, he’s going into the final year of his deal, and maybe falls into that category of ‘you have to keep some people around’.”
Ibrox faithful will understand Tavernier continuity if replacement is signed
Tavernier has been heavily criticised at Ibrox in recent seasons, as fans feel his defensive contributions haven’t been enough.
While the 33-year-old still possesses many attacking qualities, he sometimes leaves a lot to be desired while defending.
Dujon Sterling had emerged as a quality replacement for the veteran Englishman, but the 25-year-old’s consistent fitness issues make him unreliable.
Josh Mulligan has been linked with a move to Rangers and could potentially be the answer to their problems at the right-hand side of the defence.
The 22-year-old could be a versatile option for the Gers, as he can play in midfield or at right back.
While the Ibrox faithful won’t have an issue with Tavernier continuing at the Light Blues, they arguably wouldn’t want him to be the first choice.
The 33-year-old can play a backup role next season, and the Bears’ priority should be to sign a quality right-back next summer.