Danny Rohl has James Tavernier selection no-brainer to avoid Ibrox repeat vs Celtic
James Tavernier should be in line to return to the Rangers starting lineup against Celtic in the Scottish Cup.
The fullback was an unused substitute in the recent Old Firm in the Scottish Premiership, as the Gers let a 2-0 lead slip at Ibrox.
Danny Rohl does not seemingly trust the Rangers captain against their Glasgow rivals, as Dujon Sterling has started over him in the previous two clashes against Celtic.
However, after what happened at Ibrox last week, Tavernier’s inclusion must be considered by the German, as back-to-back disappointments against their rivals would hurt confidence in G51.
Why James Tavernier must start vs Celtic
Rangers’ slip-up against Celtic in the league was a mix of inexperience and mistakes being made by the Govan-based club.
Rohl, who has been an exceptional appointment so far, is not well-versed in the role of a head coach, having only begun in 2023.
It was Martin O’Neill in the end whose experience would win out and bring the game to a 2-2 draw.
Now, as another Old Firm looms, Rohl must lean on all the help he can get, and using a player like Tavernier could provide a huge lift.
The 34-year-old is one of the more experienced players at Rangers, and his time in Glasgow and during Old Firm matches can be vital. He is also one of Rangers’ top goalscorers this season.
Tavernier can lean on his past in order to help the Bears avoid yet another disappointing day at Ibrox, if they find themselves ahead.
While this game will have no bearing on the Scottish Premiership, a loss to Celtic in the cup could affect Rangers’ own confidence and self-belief going forward.
What is James Tavernier’s record vs Celtic?
Rangers’ captain has plenty of memories in the Old Firm, as it is a fixture he has competed in a total of 44 times.
Unfortunately, more often than not, the Englishman has come out on the losing side, with 26 losses. However, it is also a fixture where he has scored seven goals and assisted seven.
Few players have been involved in as many Old Firms as Tavernier, and the right-back will have plenty of lessons he could share with his teammates.
His numbers from fullback show just how influential he can be, but in the cup, Rangers will be relying on his mental toughness more than his ability on the ball.
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