Danny Röhl has made it clear that he would love to see Rangers’ long‑serving captain James Tavernier finish his eleven‑year spell at the club by lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy one final time. The 34‑year‑old right‑back announced on Wednesday that he will be departing Ibrox at the end of the current season, bringing to a close a decade‑plus of service that has seen him become one of the most recognizable faces in Scottish football. Since arriving from Wigan Athletic, Tavernier has compiled an impressive record: 144 goals in 562 appearances, a league title in 2021, a run to the Europa League final the following year, and domestic silverware that includes both the Scottish Cup and the League Cup.
His contributions have not only been measured in goals and trophies but also in leadership; he has captained the side through highs and lows, earning the respect of teammates, staff and supporters alike. Röhl, who took over the managerial reins at Rangers earlier this year, addressed the captain’s impending exit during his pre‑match press conference ahead of the Sunday fixture against Motherwell. With five games remaining in the split season, Rangers sit just one point behind league leaders Hearts and two points clear of Celtic, meaning the title race is still very much alive.
Röhl’s comments underscored the emotional weight of the situation: "It’s a big one, big news for you, for us, for the club, for the fans, for all of them. 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.
He saw all the good moments. He’s also seen 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 remarks highlight a desire for a storybook ending – a final, triumphant moment that would cement Tavernier’s legacy as a champion who left on a high.
Such a farewell is rare in modern football, where players often move on after contract expirations or transfers without the fanfare of a trophy. Röhl believes that a title would provide the appropriate closure for both the player and the club, offering a "beautiful moment" that fans will remember for years.
Tavernier’s decision to leave was somewhat unexpected. Just two days earlier, he had told the media that he was comfortable waiting until the summer to make a final call on his future. When asked whether he would have preferred to stay an additional year if it were solely his choice, 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. 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." Röhl’s focus on the remaining fixtures reflects a pragmatic approach: the team must maintain concentration on each match, especially with the title race so tight. The manager also disclosed that left‑back Tuur Rommens and striker Ryan Naderi remain sidelined with injuries, though there is optimism they could return for the final four games.
Their potential comeback adds another layer of intrigue to the closing stages of the campaign. For Rangers supporters, the prospect of a title‑winning farewell for Tavernier adds emotional intensity to each upcoming match. The club’s current position—just a point off the top—means that every point earned in the next five games could be decisive.
A victory against Motherwell, currently fourth in the table, would not only narrow the gap to Hearts but also reinforce the narrative of a captain leading his side to glory in his final act. Beyond the immediate sporting implications, Tavernier’s departure marks the end of an era for Rangers. He arrived at Ibrox in 2013 and quickly established himself as a dynamic attacking full‑back, renowned for his powerful runs, precise crossing, and a knack for scoring crucial goals.
His influence extended beyond the pitch; he became a mentor to younger players and a bridge between the dressing room and the coaching staff. His leadership style—calm, confident, and vocal—has been credited with fostering a cohesive team spirit that has endured through managerial changes and fluctuating fortunes. Looking ahead, the club will need to consider how to replace such a multifaceted figure. While the transfer market may provide options, finding a player who can match Tavernier’s blend of experience, skill, and leadership will be challenging.
In the meantime, the focus remains on securing as many points as possible to give Tavernier the send‑off he deserves. In summary, Danny Röhl’s heartfelt appeal to his captain reflects both a personal admiration for James Tavernier and a strategic desire to end the season on a high note. With the league title within reach, the next five matches will be crucial not only for the championship race but also for providing a fitting, celebratory conclusion to a distinguished career at Rangers. Whether the team lifts the trophy or falls short, Tavernier’s legacy at Ibrox will remain indelible, and his influence will be felt long after his final whistle.