Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Thu 16 April 2026 7:10, UK

James Tavernier looked out of sorts as Rangers got over the line against Falkirk on Sunday.

The Gers came from behind to secure a 6-3 win in 4 Stadium Way, but the English defender was all over the place at times.

Tavernier struggled at Falkirk Stadium and fouled Filip Lissah in the 68th minute to hand the hosts a penalty, which Calvin Miller slotted past Jack Butland to make it 4-3 and give the Light Blues a slight scare.

It’s clear to see why Danny Rohl prefers Dujon Sterling in the starting lineup, with the former Chelsea ace arguably more reliable defensively.

Tavernier’s future at Ibrox is uncertain as his current contract expires at the end of the season and he may have started his final game for the Glaswegian outfit after the recent display he put in for the German manager.

James Tavernier doesn’t cover himself in glory for Rangers

Apart from conceding a penalty against Falkirk, Tavernier showcased his defensive frailties by getting dribbled past twice, losing two of his four attempted tackles and five of his 11 ground duels, as per Sofascore.

The right-back’s attacking contributions usually end up being a saving grace for him, but he was sloppy on the ball at Falkirk Stadium, with 62 per cent passing accuracy and succeeding with just three of his eight crosses.

Having lost the ball 29 times in the 6-3 victory, it’s no wonder the Glaswegian outfit’s fans are frustrated with the 34-year-old, who completed just one of his three attempted dribbles.

When things don’t click for Tavernier, he arguably ends up becoming a liability for the Govan side, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see Rohl replace him in the summer.

Speaking on Open Goal on 13 April about the right-back’s defending before conceding the penalty, Scott Allan said, “That’s a poor one. His body shape.”

Andy Halliday responded, “Initially, he shouldn’t get as tight as he does, either. And then, I know them ones are difficult because I don’t think he tries to make contact, but Lissah has gone away, he’s gone outside the corner of the box.”

James Tavernier dilemma evident at Ibrox

For all of Tavernier’s faults, there’s no denying his qualities in the final third, creating 17 big chances in the William Hill Premiership for Rangers this season.

The defender is the Light Blues’ leading goalscorer in all competitions for the 2025-26 campaign, which goes to show his importance in the team.

While there’s an argument that the veteran right-back should no longer be a starter for the Gers, he surely has the experience and leadership qualities needed to be part of the squad next season.

Tavernier is entering the final years of his career, and it will be interesting to see which direction he takes — a potential move to a league like the MLS for the money or staying at the Glaswegian outfit with a possibly diminished role and lower salary.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.