Rangers captain James Tavernier missed out on the Europa League player of the week award following his performance against Red Star Belgrade, with the honours going to inform Atalanta striker Luis Muriel.
Muriel scored twice as the Serie A side defeated Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 in a pulsating tie and although Tavernier had an excellent match once again for the Gers, not many would begrudge the Colombian for winning the award.
The Englishman scored his fourth goal in Europe against the Serbian Champions to make him the highest-scoring defender in this season’s Europa League tournament, another fantastic achievement.
James Tavernier misses out on Europa League award to Atalanta striker Luis Muriel
The 30-year-old could possibly console himself with the fact he features in the WhoScored Team of the week alongside three other Rangers players, but I’m sure all that matters to him is the victory.
A three-goal lead is a massive advantage to take across to Serbia, but Tav of all people will still be wary of the threat that Red Star possesses and will make sure the team isn’t complacent.
The captain has been excellent as of late as the Ibrox side chase glory on three fronts. With Europa League success maybe coming second to retaining the league title, it is sure providing a welcome distraction from domestic duty.
Tavernier will need to use his leadership skills and make sure the players don’t suffer yet another European hangover on Sunday against Dundee.
Following our fabulous aggregate win over Borussia Dortmund in the playoff round, the Gers squandered a two-goal lead to drop two vital points at home to Motherwell just three days later.
Any mistakes or further dropped points from now on would be disastrous in our chase for domestic prizes.
