Danny Röhl has expressed a heartfelt wish that James Tavernier, the long‑serving Rangers captain, should cap off his eleven‑year spell at the Glasgow club by hoisting the Scottish Premiership trophy one final time. The 34‑year‑old right‑back made the public announcement on Wednesday that he will depart Rangers at the end of the season, bringing to a close a decade‑plus of service that has seen him become one of the most iconic figures in the club’s recent history. Since his transfer from Wigan Athletic, Tavernier has amassed an impressive record: 144 goals in 562 appearances, a league title in 2021, a run to the Europa League final in 2022, and victories in both the Scottish Cup and the League Cup. His contributions have not only been measured in statistics but also in the leadership and passion he has displayed on and off the pitch.
Röhl, who took over the managerial reins earlier this year, praised the captain’s influence, saying, "Since I have been here he has been a good captain, he leads the group on and off the pitch. He's a legend of the club and has made an amazing career here." Röhl’s comments came as Rangers sit just one point behind league leaders Hearts with five matches remaining in the split section of the season, while also holding a two‑point advantage over fierce rivals Celtic.
The next fixture sees Rangers host fourth‑placed Motherwell at Ibrox on Sunday, a game that could prove pivotal in the title chase. In a pre‑match press conference, Röhl emphasized the emotional weight of Tavernier’s impending departure: "It's a big one, big news for you, for us, for the club, for the fans, for all of them." He continued, "He saw all the good moments. He's also saw some not so good moments and hopefully at the end of the season he can see again a beautiful moment.
For big players should have also have a big goodbye, and the biggest goodbye would be going with a title." The manager’s words underline a desire for a storybook ending—one that would see the captain lift the league trophy in front of the fans who have adored him for over a decade. The timing of Röhl’s remarks was notable, arriving just two days after Tavernier had indicated in earlier interviews that he was comfortable waiting until the summer to decide his future. When asked whether he would have preferred Tavernier to stay another year if the decision were entirely his, Röhl responded, "That's not a topic for today.
He made the final decision. We were very clear on our process. We said, if the time is right, we will speak about him.
He gave me the information before it came out. It was very fair from him." Röhl also highlighted the practical side of the remaining fixtures: "He spoke to the group and I think the most important thing is now, you have 21 days to go.
Five games, focus on these five games, and then you will have an incredible goodbye, what he deserves, and this is all that is important for me, for us, for the group, focus to what happens now." The manager’s focus on the short‑term goal underscores the belief that a strong finish could provide Tavernier with the perfect farewell. In addition to the title race, Rangers are dealing with injury concerns. Left‑back Tuur Rommens and striker Ryan Naderi remain sidelined, though both are expected to return for the final quartet of matches if their recoveries continue as planned. Their potential comeback could add depth to a squad already stretched by the demands of a congested schedule that includes domestic cup competitions and the lingering memory of last season’s Europa League final run.
Beyond the immediate drama, Tavernier’s legacy at Rangers is already cemented. Arriving from Wigan in 2013, he quickly became a fan favourite due to his tireless work ethic, powerful runs down the right flank, and a knack for scoring crucial goals.
His 144‑goal tally includes several spectacular long‑range strikes and decisive finishes in cup finals, moments that have been replayed countless times on the club’s social media channels and in the stands of Ibrox. Off the field, Tavernier has been a vocal ambassador for community initiatives, often participating in charity events and youth coaching sessions throughout Glasgow. His leadership style, described by teammates as both demanding and supportive, has helped nurture a younger generation of Rangers players, many of whom cite him as a mentor who taught them the importance of professionalism and perseverance.
As the season draws to a close, the narrative surrounding Tavernian’s exit is shaping into a classic football story: a loyal captain, a beloved manager, and a club on the cusp of a title. If Rangers can secure the league crown in the remaining fixtures, it would not only fulfill Röhl’s wish for a "beautiful moment" but also provide a fitting tribute to a player whose contributions have defined an era. Fans across Scotland and beyond are already speculating on the potential celebrations that could follow a title win, envisioning a triumphant parade through Glasgow’s streets, a heartfelt speech from Tavernier at the trophy presentation, and perhaps even a future role within the club’s coaching staff or ambassadorial team. Whatever the outcome, the respect and admiration for James Tavernier’s service are undeniable, and his departure will be felt long after the final whistle of his last game.
In the meantime, supporters are encouraged to tune in to the live broadcast of the Scottish Premiership on Sky Sports or the NOW streaming platform to catch the decisive matches. The final stretch promises high drama, intense competition, and the chance for a captain to end his Rangers career on the highest possible note—a moment that could be remembered as one of the most poignant chapters in the club’s storied history.