James Tavernier has made it clear to Sky Sports News that he will not rule out the possibility of extending his stay at Rangers, even as his current contract expires at the end of the campaign. The 34‑year‑old captain, who joined the Glasgow club in 2015, says his immediate priority is to help the side secure a second Scottish Premiership crown during his tenure.
Rangers sit just a point behind league leaders Hearts, with Celtic trailing another two points, and there are only five matches remaining in the season. In this tight context, Tavernier emphasizes a week‑by‑week approach, noting that discussions about his future are secondary to the day‑to‑day demands of training, match preparation and family commitments. "My wife asked me about our holiday plans and I told her it’s too early to think about that," he said when probed about his long‑term intentions.
"I don’t like to plan too far ahead; I’m focused on this week, on my training schedule and on my children’s routines." He added that the decision about a new deal will be communicated in due course, but he remains open to staying at Ibrox. "I have been with Rangers for a long time and I will never shut the door on the possibility of continuing here," Tavernier explained. "For now, I just have to wait and see what unfolds." Despite his desire to be on the pitch, the defender has started only 23 of Rangers’ 33 league fixtures this season. New head coach Danny Röhl has rotated the squad, seeking contributions from a broader pool of players as the title race intensifies.
Tavernier expressed frustration at not featuring more regularly, insisting his physical condition remains strong. "It’s frustrating because I want to start every game, and my body isn’t slowing down at all," he admitted. "If I’m asked to sit on the bench, I will support the lads, give my input and stay true to myself.
When I do get the chance to play, I will give everything for the team." Rangers endured a difficult opening to the season, managing only a single league win before sacking manager Russell Martin in October. When Röhl arrived, the club were sixth in the table, a full 13 points adrift of leaders Hearts. Under the new manager’s guidance, the team has surged back into contention, and Opta’s statistical model now lists Rangers as the favourites to lift the trophy.
Tavernier highlighted the importance of treating every match as a cup final, a philosophy the squad has embraced since the season’s start. "Our aim is simple: win every game from now until the end of the season," he said.
"We always say each fixture feels like a final, and that mindset has helped us secure the results we need." He praised the collective belief that has emerged over recent months, pointing to improved performances and the challenging decisions the manager faces when selecting his XI. "The belief is in the squad," Tavernier noted.
"You’ve seen the results and the level of play we’ve been delivering. It’s given the gaffer a headache on team selection, which is a good sign because it means we have quality options." Staying grounded, the captain stressed that humility and determination must remain at the core of the group’s ethos.
"We have to stay humble, stay driven, and keep pushing each other," he said. "We need to apply ourselves fully in training and in games, giving everything we have." Looking ahead, the Rangers faithful can expect a decisive run‑in with five matches left to determine the champion. If the club can maintain its current momentum, they stand a strong chance of overtaking Hearts and possibly outpacing Celtic, who are also in the mix. Tavernier’s leadership, both on and off the pitch, will be pivotal as the team navigates this pressure‑filled finale.
Beyond the immediate title chase, the question of Tavernier’s future contract will likely be resolved in the coming weeks. His openness to staying, combined with the club’s ambition to retain key players, suggests that negotiations could be fruitful for both parties. For now, the focus remains on delivering the best possible performances, supporting teammates, and striving for that coveted league crown. In summary, James Tavernier is keeping his options open regarding a new deal, but his short‑term concentration is firmly fixed on helping Rangers clinch the Scottish Premiership.
He acknowledges the challenges of limited starts, the importance of squad depth, and the need for a relentless, final‑match mentality. As the season draws to a close, his experience and commitment will be essential assets in the club’s quest for glory.