Rangers: James Tavernier set for more success vs Dundee United as phenomenal stats emerge
Rangers captain James Tavernier will likely repeat some of his magic in the final third when they host Dundee United on Saturday.
Tavernier’s contract expires in May, and the right-back’s 11-year spell at Rangers could be over.
He was part of the 2021 title-winning side under Steven Gerrard, while also playing a starring role under Giovanni van Bronckhorst as the Bears reached the Europa League final in 2022.
Although Rangers are currently undergoing a rebuild under Danny Rohl, Tavernier hasn't been counted on as often as he would like, and he only has 22 league starts to his name this campaign.
However, after starting the last two matches, Tavernier is in fine form, and he'll need to continue his impressive string of performances against Dundee United at Ibrox.
James Tavernier set for more attacking brilliance vs Dundee United
Most fans want him to stay in G51, although the 34-year-old hasn’t spoken out about his immediate plans for the future.
After scoring a phenomenal free-kick against Aberdeen, Tavernier emphasised his importance to the team going forward in fantastic style.
There have been times this season where he has been defensively poor, and while that can be partially due to his age, it's generally an aspect of his game that he hasn't refined.
According to Sofascore, Tavernier has only won 51.6 per cent of his ground duels and recorded just six blocks this season.
| Stat | Tavernier |
| Appearances | 29 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Chances created | 59 |
| Ground duels won | 51.9% |
| Recoveries | 98 |
| Tackles | 51 |
However, the visitors have conceded 48 goals this campaign, which is brilliant news for Tavernier.
Of course, he'll have to be at his best to stop the dangerous Will Ferry, with Dundee United overly reliant on him to create a moment of quality out of nothing.
However, when looking at Tavernier's qualities from an attacking standpoint, the fact that he is Rangers’ second top scorer after 31 Scottish Premiership matches is extraordinary, and it’s a testament to how effective he is in the final third.
No player in the Scottish Premiership has created more chances (62) or big chances (17), and given Dundee United's poor defence, this is a great opportunity for Tavernier to extend his goal tally.
Tavernier's end product is irreplaceable for Rangers - but what is his record vs Dundee United?
With Rangers only three points off Hearts, Tavernier is looking to captain the team to a first Scottish Premiership win since 2020-21.
Having joined the Bears in July 2015 from Bristol City, it would be emotional if he were to leave in the summer.
Not only is Tavernier a great leader behind the scenes, but the sheer number of goals that he has been involved in is unique for a defender.
The Bears desperately need an older figure in the dressing room, and Tavernier's experience can't be replaced very easily.
On the pitch, Tavernier particularly has a phenomenal record against Dundee United, registering eight goal involvements in 14 appearances.
He has been on the winning side in 10 of those meetings, with the only loss coming in August 2021.
Ibrox will be mourning the day he finally plays his last game, which could be in May, and Rohl certainly won’t be taking his presence in the team for granted as the season progresses.