In June 2015, Ranger fans welcomed James Tavernier, a goal-scoring attacking right-back, to the squad as they navigated their way back to the summit of Scottish Football. Now, after an illustrious career spanning almost a decade, Tavernier has become a club icon, leaving an indelible mark on Rangers’ history.
A Prolific Scorer
Tavernier’s impact on the team is undeniable, having played a staggering 435 games and netting an incredible 117 goals. This remarkable feat places him as the 7th highest-scoring defender in the history of professional football – a testament to his attacking prowess and goal-scoring ability.
Fan’s Divergent Opinions
Throughout his tenure, Tavernier has divided opinion among fans. Critics argue that he lacks defensive qualities, while admirers praise his attacking contributions, assists, and goal-scoring success. The debate extends to his captaincy, with some fans questioning his leadership on the pitch due to perceived vocal shortcomings, while others commend his lead-by-example approach.
Enduring Captaincy
Remarkably, Tavernier has retained the captain’s armband under the guidance of various Rangers managers, including Mark Warburton, Pedro Caixinha, Steven Gerrard, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Michael Beale, and Philippe Clement. Despite the managerial changes, each one has entrusted Tavernier with the responsibility of leading the team, showcasing the value he brings to the squad beyond statistical measures.
Trophy Cabinet
Tavernier’s time at Rangers has been defined by success. He has lifted the Scottish Premier League, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup, completing a clean sweep of the top honours in Scottish Football. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Rangers’ thrilling run to the Europa League final during the 2021/2022 season, adding another memorable chapter to his storied career.
His individual brilliance has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by winning the PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year in 2021. Additionally, he was honored with induction into the Rangers Hall of Game in 2023, solidifying his legacy as one of the club’s all-time greats.
Adaptation and Evolution
As Tavernier enters the twilight of his playing career at the age of 32, concerns about a potential loss of pace arose at the start of the 2023/2024 season. However, under the management of Philippe Clement, there has been a tactical shift, with Tavernier adopting a more central role during attacks. This adjustment showcases his versatility and the manager’s trust in his ability to adapt to new challenges.
Gratitude and Anticipation
As fans reflect on Tavernier’s remarkable contributions to Rangers, there is an overwhelming sense of gratitude for his unwavering dedication. As he continues to evolve within the team, we eagerly anticipate more success in the coming seasons. James Tavernier’s journey with Rangers has been a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an undying commitment to the pursuit of excellence. Long may his success continue to resonate within the hallowed halls of Ibrox.