James Tavernier had a game against Hearts that has almost become his trademark during his time at Rangers.
The captain has been under pressure, again, this season after seeing his team knocked out of Champions League qualification for the second time in three years and an early lead surrendered to Celtic in the league.
On so many occasions though, it is James Tavernier that comes to Rangers rescue and teammate Rabbi Matondo has been quick to praise the skipper’s impact with a post on X.
James Tavernier given Rangers respect by Rabbi Matondo
Football has changed in that captains are no longer the ones kicking doors off hinges or the ones that spend 90 minutes screaming at their teammates.
Most, are the players who lead by example and can be relied upon to be consistent, available and set the standard for the rest of the squad.
James Tavernier, hailed as “phenomenal” by Antonio Colak, has his flaws, but his commitment to Rangers and determination to contribute can never be questioned.
As Matondo, who is currently out injured, says:
“Respect my skipper, Super Tavernier.”
We all know what Tavernier’s strengths are, we also know what his weaknesses are.
Against Hearts, we saw everything good – and bad – about what he brings to Rangers.
A missed penalty, stray passes and a goal conceded where he could have done better saw him get more than his fair share of moans and groans from the Ibrox faithful.
But…
As he has done so often in the past, he stepped up to be counted when it would have been easier to pass the buck.
Not only was the penalty a brave one but the quality on his cross for Danilo just a couple of minutes later served as a reminder of why he is so important.
If Rangers are to win silverware this season, an on form James Tavernier is going to be key.
It would be nice if he didn’t leave it until after the 90th minute next time though.
