Rangers fullback James Tavernier might be enjoying the greatest defensive goalscoring season in Rangers history, but he has been left off the PFA Scotland shortlist for Player of the Year (POTY)
And before the naysayers begin chanting about how 14 of his 16 strikes were from the penalty spot, those spot kicks also don’t tell the full story of Tav’s season.
Tavernier has been a rock for Rangers this year, give or take some ropey moments. The mistake against Celtic is clearly the standout.
But the defender has largely answered critics who routinely called out his lack of defensive concentration. And perhaps more valuably, he has lost absolutely none of that creative sprite that makes him such an asset for Rangers.
Tav has actually made more goals than he has scored. The marauding right-back is one of the strongest outlets we have in this side, and his monumental 20 assists are a testament to that.
He has also near perfect attendance this season. Out of the 57 games Rangers have played to date, James Tavernier has played 55 of them. He is also likely to play the final three games of the season yet to come.
James Tavernier is undervalued at Rangers and in Scottish football
The 27-year-old has completely and utterly risen to the challenge of being Rangers captain. It’s incredible how much he is undervalued by elements of the Rangers support and the footballing community here.
This sheer determined commitment to Rangers, and to raising his game when the chips are down, is exactly why if he doesn’t deserve an award, he at least deserves a mention.
He is undoubtedly the best right back in the country, unarguably the most effective full-back.
And whilst that might’ve been inferred by
He’s had a superb season in blue and it feels like he’s still yet to really reach the peak of his powers. When he does, don’t bet against the former Newcastle youth getting his hands on the Scottish Premiership trophy.
And on a personal POTY award of his own too.
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