Michael Stewart has delivered his verdict on James Tavernier leaving Rangers at the end of the season.
Tavernier has revealed that contract talks have not been held with the Gers hierarchy despite his deal running out at the end of the current campaign.
Rangers fans have already voted for their next captain in case the 34-year-old is shown the door this summer.
James Tavernier is set to leave Rangers…
Will Rangers regret not retaining his services? Tell us why!
Michael Stewart believes Dujon Sterling’s fitness is a worry
Michael Stewart thinks that the Gers would have dealt with Tavernier’s situation a while back had Dujon Sterling been more reliable.
However, Sterling has battled fitness issues and has struggled to keep himself fit consistently for the last two years.
He is the backup to the club captain and there have been occasions when Danny Rohl has even fancied him to start ahead of the 34-year-old.
Max Aarons is the third-choice right-back, but he is not expected to be back at Ibrox next season.
The Bournemouth defender was signed by Russell Martin on loan, but has not done enough to merit a return.
Speaking on Premier Sports, Stewart said: “Rangers have gotten a bit of an issue as they’ve not got an obvious successor because Sterling’s not always fit.
“If he was, this scenario would have perhaps come to head sooner. They clearly need to find someone as a long-term solution to that right-back role.
“It certainly does seem like it is coming to an end. It’s been a hugely successful time at Rangers for James Tavernier.”
Nicolas Raskin has been linked with a Rangers exit…
Who can Rangers sign to replace James Tavernier?
The Gers will actively be looking for new right-backs as two of their current options could leave in the summer.
Ryan Alebiosu of Blackburn Rovers makes a lot of sense as he ticks a number of boxes for Rohl.
Rangers can also sign Alebiosu on a cut-price fee as the Ewood Park club are in a bit of a crisis at the wrong end of the table.
He is attack-minded and a good crosser, and if Rohl is to play a 4-2-2-2 next season, the Nigeria international would be the ideal fit for him.
