James Tavernier has made it clear to Sky Sports News that he will "never shut the door" on the possibility of a fresh contract with Rangers. The 34‑year‑old captain, whose current deal expires at the close of the season, insists his immediate priority is to help the Glasgow side clinch a second Scottish Premiership crown since he arrived in 2015. Rangers sit just a single point behind league leaders Hearts, with Celtic trailing another two points, and only five matches remain in the campaign. The tight race has amplified every decision, yet Tavernier remains focused on the week ahead rather than long‑term speculation.
"My wife asked me about the holidays and I told her that's too far ahead for me to think about," he said when pressed about his future. "I’m not someone who plans two weeks out; I concentrate on this week – my training, my kids' schedules, and the match at hand." He added that the hectic nature of his life means any contract discussions will likely be dealt with later in the season. "I’ve been at this club for a long time and I’ll never close the door on staying, but we have to wait and see what unfolds," Tavernier explained.
Despite his commitment, the defender has only started 23 of Rangers' 33 league fixtures this term. New manager Danny Röhl has been rotating the squad, looking to other players to share the load as the title push intensifies. "It’s frustrating because I want to start every game, and my body isn’t slowing down at all," Tavernier admitted. "If I’m asked to sit on the bench, I’ll support the lads, give my input, and just be myself.
When I’m on the pitch, I’ll give everything for the team." Rangers endured a turbulent start to the season, managing just one league win before sacking manager Russell Martin in October. When Röhl took over, the club were sixth in the table, a full 13 points adrift of leaders Hearts. The turnaround has been dramatic; Opta’s statistical model now lists Rangers as the favourites to lift the trophy.
Tavernier emphasized that the title is within reach if the squad maintains its current intensity. "It’s in our hands. Our aim is simple – win every game from now until the end of the season," he said. "We treat every match as a cup final from day one, and that mindset has to stay consistent." He praised the collective belief that has emerged over recent months, pointing to the improved results and performances.
"The squad’s confidence has grown, and you can see it in the way we’ve been playing. It’s even given the manager a headache with selection because everyone wants to be involved," Tavernier joked. "We have to stay humble, stay driven, and keep pushing each other, giving our maximum in training and in games." Beyond the immediate title chase, Tavernier’s comments hint at a broader personal narrative.
Since joining Rangers, he has become one of the most recognizable faces in Scottish football, known for his energetic wing‑back play, powerful free‑kicks, and leadership qualities. His contract situation has been a recurring topic among supporters, who appreciate his loyalty but also understand the business realities of modern football. While the captain refrains from giving a definitive timeline for negotiations, his willingness to keep the door open signals that he values the club’s ambitions and his role within it.
The upcoming fixtures will be crucial: a direct clash with Hearts could decide the championship, while matches against Celtic will test the team's resilience under pressure. In the meantime, Rangers fans can continue to watch the drama unfold on Sky Sports, with live streaming options available through NOW and other platforms.
The club’s recent form suggests they have the momentum to challenge for the title, and Tavernier’s experience will be vital in guiding younger teammates through the final stretch. As the season draws to a close, the question remains whether Tavernier will sign a new deal and continue his legacy at Ibrox, or explore opportunities elsewhere. For now, his focus is unequivocal – give his all each week, support his teammates, and help Rangers secure the league crown they have been chasing all season.