James Tavernier, the long-serving captain of Rangers, has announced his decision to leave the club at the end of the current season. This move comes after an impressive 11-year stint with the team, during which he has led them to numerous victories, including the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, and League Cup. Tavernier, who is 34, has been an integral part of the team since joining in 2015 and has scored an impressive 144 goals in 562 appearances, making him Britain's highest-scoring defender.
In a statement on social media, Tavernier expressed his gratitude to the club, stating that it has been a significant part of his life and that of his family over the past decade. He also acknowledged the honor of being the team's captain since 2018 and expressed his pride in representing the club.
Despite his decision to leave, Tavernier emphasized his commitment to giving his all to the team for the remainder of the season, as they strive to win the league title. His departure marks the end of an era for Rangers, and his legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
Tavernier's time at Rangers has been marked by numerous achievements, including helping the team win promotion to the Premiership in his first season and lifting the Scottish Cup under the management of Giovanni van Bronckhorst. He has also played under several other managers, including Mark Warburton, Pedro Caixinha, Steven Gerrard, and Philippe Clement. The club's current head coach, Danny Röhl, has often preferred Dujon Sterling at right-back, with Tavernier starting 23 of the team's 33 Premiership games this season.
In his statement, Tavernier thanked his teammates, the staff, and the fans for their support throughout his time at the club, acknowledging the bonds they have formed and the memories they have created. He also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to play in front of the fans, describing them as the 'heart and soul' of the club. The news of Tavernier's departure has been met with a mix of emotions, with some fans and pundits reflecting on his complex reception among the Rangers fans and the wider Scottish football community. While he has been praised for his attacking prowess and goal-scoring ability, he has also faced criticism for his defensive capabilities at times.
Former Rangers manager Mark Warburton has praised Tavernier's dedication, passion, and finishing ability, describing him as a 'tremendous servant' for the club. Warburton also warned that the team will miss Tavernier when he is gone, stating that they will look back and regret any negative comments made about him during his time at the club.