James Tavernier return called 'no-brainer' as likely wage-cut suggested at Rangers
Andy Halliday sparked somewhat of a controversy after suggesting Rangers should re-sign James Tavernier.
The ex-Motherwell midfielder sparked a debate in Scotland after urging the Gers to bring their former captain back.
Derek McInnes has had a difficult start to life at the Light Blues and most of the 10 new summer signings have failed to make a mark so far.
Tavernier left Ibrox not on the best of terms after an apparent falling out with Danny Rohl, but the German manager is no longer at the club.
The Glaswegian outfit signed Ross McCrorie to compete with Dujon Sterling at right-back this season, but neither have convinced fans in G51 at the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
While the 34-year-old English defender's return to Govan has been suggested, it should come with slight caveats.
How Rangers should approach James Tavernier transfer pitch
Tavernier experienced a bittersweet farewell at the Gers after over a decade of service due to Rohl's decision.
After a misunderstanding with the now Red Bull Salzburg boss over not starting the final game at Ibrox last season, the veteran defender decided to exclude himself from the squad.
Halliday admits it was the right time for the Light Blues to let Tavernier leave, but they have failed to replace him.
The Glaswegian outfit also seem to be lacking creativity in the final third under McInnes, something the right-back could help out with.
While the Govan side have been told to make a move for their former defender, the financial package and his role in the team would need to be diminished.
Speaking on BBC Sportsound on 15 August, Halliday said, "Absolutely, I do. I'll double down on them right now. I said when Rangers and Tavernier parted ways, it was absolutely the right time.
"Fast forward two to three months, Rangers have made 10 signings, and for me, I would struggle for anyone to tell me they have made an upgrade in that position so far.
"I think Tavernier is undoubtedly an upgrade in that position. If the approach was made, it would have to be on significantly less money that he was before and there are going to be games where he plays his part and there will be games he'll not.
"But the games I've watched so far, I've been crying out for creativity, and Tavernier has been Rangers' most creative player for the last decade. For me, it's a no-brainer."
How Derek McInnes has already admitted he needs James Tavernier at Ibrox
Rangers thought they had enough quality at right-back after signing McCrorie from Bristol City.
With Sterling's persistent fitness issues at Ibrox, it makes sense for the Gers to add more depth in the position.
McInnes has already had to play Vanja Dragojevic out of position at right-back, highlighting the need for reinforcements.
The Glaswegian outfit have also seemingly targeted plenty of former captains this summer to fill the leadership void left by Tavernier, but only time will tell how the team will cope without the veteran defender in Govan.