James Tavernier ‘to start under Russell Martin’ after Rangers development
James Tavernier may once again play a pivotal role for Rangers under Russell Martin at Ibrox.
The ex-Southampton boss was appointed the Gers’ permanent head coach after Barry Ferguson’s departure.
Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises have pledged a significant sum for investment this summer at the Light Blues, potentially leading to a squad overhaul in G51.
Martin is expected to bring success back to Ibrox immediately, and the veteran English right-back could possibly be influential for the Glaswegian outfit next season.
Martin to start Tavernier after confirming Rangers captain
Martin has confirmed Tavernier, who receives mixed reactions from fans, will continue as the Gers’ captain ahead of next season.
Scott McDermott wants the 33-year-old to start for the Light Blues in the upcoming campaign as they look to start a new era under the ex-Saints boss.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 53 | 5 | 13 |
The Scottish journalist believes the Englishman, who will always have doubters, might face more competition for his place, but would like to see him in the starting lineup after being trusted with the armband.
While analysing which Bears players to start, bench and sell, McDemott wrote in the Record (10 June): “The skipper will always have doubters and might face more competition for his place this season. But Martin has already confirmed he’ll keep the armband. Start.”
Martin must make drastic changes at Ibrox to compete with Celtic
Martin wants to reunite with Aaron Ramsdale at the Gers, and while that looks unrealistic, similar ambitious moves must be made to compete with Celtic.
The 39-year-old head coach endured a difficult season with Southampton, and he was sacked after poor performances in the Premier League.
While the Light Blues surely won’t be in danger of going down to the Championship, the expectations at the Glaswegian outfit are much higher.
Tavernier has long been linked with an exit from Rangers, and fans wouldn’t mind seeing the 33-year-old leave, with his contract expiring next year.
While the Englishman captained the Gers to their first league title in 10 years, they can’t be sentimental and need to realise that better players are needed for Martin to succeed.
Dujon Sterling played at right-back on a few occasions in the current campaign, but his consistent fitness issues make him unreliable.
Ridvan Yilmaz is also capable of playing on the right-hand side of the defence, but the Turkish ace may be on his way out of Ibrox this summer.
The Light Blues’ supporters won’t be pleased to see Kevin Thelwell not sign someone better than Tavernier, forcing Martin to continue with the veteran defender in the starting lineup.