Rangers told to avoid ‘daft’ mistake as James Tavernier concern raised
Rangers chiefs have been urged not to make a mistake when it comes to James Tavernier’s contract situation.
Tavernier’s Rangers contract expires at the end of the season, and there has been no update on whether an extension is on the cards.
Tavernier has stepped up on several occasions for Rangers this season, despite their dismal form across all competitions, so a potential renewal is a dilemma for Kevin Thelwell and Co.
Rangers Review journalist Chris Jack believes that the Ibrox side have to give him a new deal at the moment, but it cannot be on his terms.
What did Chris Jack say about James Tavernier’s future at Rangers
Jack claims that the decision may have been easier had Max Aarons come in and taken Tavernier‘s spot at right-back.
However, since he has not, Jack believes that the Govan outfit have to keep the 34-year-old around, at least for the near future.
Speaking on Rangers Review’s Thursday Morning Briefing show on 13 November, he said: “Tav, I know that will be a big issue, it is going to be a big talking points as the campaign goes on and his contract gets nearer to the end.
“If Max Aarons had looked like he was going to be the Rangers right-back for the next three season then I think it becomes an easier question but he has not.
“If you allow Tav to leave, you need two right-backs,” he said.
He later added: “I would have no issue with him getting another contract, it has to be on reduced terms, it can’t be on still big money and another three years, that would be daft.”
Why Rangers have to keep Tavernier around
Jack is spot on in his verdict, the Gers cannot afford to lose Tavernier at the moment for several reasons.
For starters, he is the most experienced player in squad, as he has spent 10 years with the Auchenhowie club.
- Tavernier joined the Gers in 2015
- He has made 537 appearances
- He is an attacking right-back, with 136 goals and 145 assists in his time in Govan
While he has not won as much as he should have with the Light Blues, that is not solely down to him, it is also due to the state of the club for the majority of that period.
Secondly, he is still stepping up regularly, especially when it comes to goals, as he has six goals and three assists so far this season.
Finally, as Jack states, the Bears would have to bring in two right-backs if they allowed him to depart, which is a sizeable task in its own right for a recruitment staff that are under major pressure.
Considering the other areas of the squad that need improvement, that does not seem like a feasible task, and it makes sense for the Gers to extend their captain.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Rangers news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @ibroxnews247