James Tavernier has made it clear to Sky Sports News that he will "never shut the door" on the prospect of signing a fresh deal with Rangers. The 34‑year‑old captain, whose current contract expires at the end of the season, emphasized that his immediate priority is helping the club secure a second Scottish Premiership crown since his arrival in 2015. Rangers sit just a single point behind league leaders Hearts, with Celtic trailing two more points, and there are only five matches remaining in the campaign. In this tight context, Tavernier stressed that he is taking each day as it comes.

When asked about his future plans, he replied, "My wife was asking me about a holiday and I said that’s too far ahead for me to think about. I’m not someone who looks two weeks out; I’m focused on this week – my training, my kids’ schedules, and the matches ahead." He added that the hectic nature of his life means contract discussions will likely be addressed later in the season. "I’ve been at this club for a long time and I’ll never close the door on staying, but I have to wait and see what happens," he said, indicating that any decision will be communicated in due course.

Despite his commitment, Tavernier has only started 23 of Rangers’ 33 league fixtures so far this year. New head coach Danny Röhl has been rotating the squad, looking for other players to step up and help clinch the title.

Tavernier expressed frustration at not featuring more regularly, noting, "It’s obviously frustrating because I want to start every single game, and my body isn’t slowing down one bit. If I’m asked to sit on the bench, I’ll still support the lads, give my input and stay true to myself. When I’m on the pitch, I give everything I have for the team." Rangers endured a difficult opening to the season, managing only one league win before sacking manager Russell Martin in October.

When Röhl took over, the team were sixth in the table, a full 13 points adrift of leaders Hearts. Under the new manager’s guidance, Rangers have surged back into contention, with Opta’s data models now listing them as the favourites to lift the trophy. Tavernier highlighted the collective mindset that has driven the turnaround. "It’s in our hands.

Our aim is simple – win every game from now until the end of the season. We treat every match as if it were a cup final, and we’ve been doing exactly that," he explained.

He praised the squad’s belief, pointing to the recent string of positive results and performances. "The players have given the gaffer a real headache with selection choices, which tells you how good we are. We’re in a great place." He also underscored the importance of humility and drive. "We have to stay humble, stay hungry, keep pushing each other, and give maximum effort in training and matches," Tavernier said.

His comments reflect a seasoned leader who understands that sustained success hinges on collective effort rather than individual brilliance. Looking ahead, the Rangers captain remains optimistic but realistic. With only five fixtures left, every point will be vital.

Hearts sit one point ahead, while Celtic remain within striking distance. The title race is poised to be decided in the final weeks, and Tavernier’s experience will be crucial in guiding younger teammates through the pressure. Beyond the immediate league battle, Tavernier hinted at personal considerations that will shape his future.

Balancing family life, training demands, and the potential for a new contract will require careful planning. Yet his message is unequivocal: he is not ruling out extending his tenure at Ibrox. "I’ll never shut the door on staying here," he affirmed, leaving the door open for negotiations once the season concludes. In summary, James Tavernier is fully committed to the present challenge – winning the Scottish Premiership – while keeping the option of a new Rangers contract on the table.

His leadership, both on and off the pitch, continues to inspire the squad as they chase the title in what promises to be a dramatic finish to the season.