James Tavernier has never been Richard Gough or Terry Butcher as a Rangers captain, an inimitable presence that commands respect.
With 101 goals and 117 assists in 400 appearances since joining the club though, he is a player that has earned it the hard way.
As with Alex Lowry, on holiday in Dubai, James Tavernier is setting the standard as Rangers captain in a different way, by leading by example.
The skipper has always been one of our fittest players, rarely missing a game or training session.
As he approaches his 32nd birthday, he would be forgiven for taking things a little easier, especially with rumoured interest from Saudi Arabia.
His most recent Instagram post suggests that he has no such intentions.
James Tavernier is a proper Rangers captain
James Tavernier will consistently cover more miles than any other player for Rangers.
One minute he is at the back post looking to get on the end of crosses, the next, he is defending one v one at the opposite end.
As one of our most potent attacking outlets, having a right-back with as big an engine as Tavernier is key to creating overloads against frequently packed defences.
He has his flaws but, without him, we don’t get to the Europa League final – he was top goalscorer and in the team of the season.
It’s that simple.
Open play goals from six-yards out just shouldn’t be the remit of a full-back and yet that is exactly what he delivers.
For the first time since Nathan Patterson left, Tavernier will be looking over his shoulder though.
Dujon Sterling is a powerhouse in the captain’s mould.
An athlete that will contribute at both ends of the park.
Rangers will never see another full-back who has a goal or assist every two games, most of our forwards don’t hit those numbers for a start.
But what they will be able to do is match Tavernier’s work rate and intensity, if they follow his lead.
