James Tavernier is a Rangers enigma, just as easily capable of costing his team a game as he is of winning it.
After a double and an assist against St Mirren took his tally to 107 goals and 119 assists, it’s safe to say that the Gers captain is still in credit.
But, as he gets older, is there a way that James Tavernier can continue to contribute to Rangers success without the defensive responsibilities?
James Tavernier can be Rangers midfield option
It was a discussion that was held in previous years when Nathan Patterson was pushing the skipper hard.
As Father Time catches up, Tav’s ability to get up and down the line will be impacted but if he doesn’t have to cover quite the same ground then his attacking output won’t be affected.
Certainly in domestic football, James Tavernier spends most of his time higher up the pitch for Rangers anyway, having Dujon Sterling doing the hard yards instead would allow him to get into more positions like the one he scored his stunning half volley from.
The other quality is that the 31-year old is someone who will play with his head up and look forwards.
At times, the Rangers midfield has been too quick to choose the easy option in recent weeks.
With everyone fit, James Tavernier shouldn’t be anywhere near the Rangers midfield but against more physical domestic opposition where we still need a positive influence, then he could be a useful option.
Either that, or a subtle shift in formation to a 3-4-3 which would give Tavernier more protection too.
Despite his flaws, Tavernier remains one of Rangers most potent attacking threats and his display against St Mirren only confirms that – getting the best out of him could be key to any success this season.
