James Tavernier’s price, according to manager Steven Gerrard, is somewhere in the “loads” region.
The Rangers captain put in another terrific performance in a 3-1 win against Hearts on Sunday. Leading from the back, Tavernier marauded forward and was a constant threat to the Hearts rearguard whilst remaining solid at the back.
Tav continues to be playing with a free-flowing confidence to his game since Gerrard walked in the door. Giving him the armband seems to have done him the world of good, and he’s thriving with his improved responsibility.
Rangers also rebuffed several offers for their star-man during the transfer window. Gerrard made it clear at the time that the right-back wasn’t for sale. Now, however, it appears the manager has went back on it and claimed he is attainable….just for a lot of money.
“I would be surprised if teams don’t come (for Tavernier) because he’s been absolutely fabulous for me.
“All my players are for sale. Let’s get it out in the open. Every single one of my players is for sale. They have all got a price. But they are not the old prices. It’s the new prices. So if you want them then come with loads of money and you can have them.
“That goes for any CEO, any owner, any club that wants my captain. They best go to the bank and get an awful lot of money out – or he’s not going.”
The true values
It’s long overdue that Rangers start to demand the true values of their players in the transfer market. The likes of Lewis Macleod for one left for nothing other than a development fee. Allowing talent to leave for little cash isn’t going to help the club in the long-term, and Gerrard recognises this.
You get the feeling that, despite Gerrard claiming that he is available, Tavernier isn’t really. At the moment, he’s a key figure in Gerrard’s reign and not just because he’s the captain. As a footballer, he’s essential to have down that right hand side.
After signing a new contract just earlier this season, the Englishman will have his sights set on trophies at Ibrox. That has to be the next step after bringing the Gers up from the Championship. So far, that’s the only competition Tavernier has won. The right-back was also part of the side that nearly won the Scottish Cup back in 2016, only to lose out to Hibs.
Rangers are finally holding the aces when it comes to selling their best players. No longer do they come across as a club to be picked at for cheap deals. Gerrard has made it clear that any of his top stars leaving would only depart for top dollar.
Some fans won’t like discussing anything regarding their top stars leaving, but you also have to be realistic. Tavernier’s form will continue to drum up interest, but fans can be safe in the knowledge that he’s going nowhere unless Rangers get the riches for him.
