Danny Röhl has made it clear that he would love to see Rangers captain James Tavernier lift the Scottish Premiership trophy in what would be a fitting finale to his eleven‑year spell at the Glasgow club. The 34‑year‑old right‑back confirmed on Wednesday that he will depart the team at the end of the season, and the German manager is already dreaming of a "beautiful moment" – a title win – to cap off the veteran's illustrious career in Scotland. Since arriving from Wigan Athletic, Tavernier has become synonymous with Rangers' recent successes. Over the course of 562 matches he has found the back of the net 144 times, a remarkable tally for a defender, and his leadership helped guide Ibrox to the 2020‑21 Scottish Premiership crown.
The following season he captained the side to the Europa League final, and he has also collected both the Scottish Cup and the League Cup during his tenure. His contributions on and off the pitch have cemented his status as a modern club legend. Röhl addressed the topic during his pre‑match press conference ahead of the upcoming home fixture against Motherwell, who sit fourth in the table.
With five games remaining after the league split, Rangers sit just one point behind leaders Heart of Midlothian and two points ahead of fierce rivals Celtic, meaning every result could be decisive. "It's a big one, big news for you, for us, for the club, for the fans, for all of them," Röhl said when asked about Tavernier's impending exit. "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." The manager went on to stress the emotional weight of a proper farewell.
"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," Röhl added, underscoring his belief that a championship would be the ultimate send‑off for the captain. Tavernier's own comments had surprised many fans just two days earlier when he told the media he was comfortable waiting until the summer to decide his future. When asked whether he would have preferred the player to stay another year if the decision were entirely his, Röhl replied, "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." The coach also disclosed that left‑back Tuur Rommens and striker Ryan Naderi remain sidelined with injuries, though there is hope they could return for the final quartet of matches. Their availability could prove crucial as Rangers aim to maintain their narrow lead over Hearts and keep Celtic at bay. Beyond the immediate drama, Tavernier's departure marks the end of an era for a player who has become an integral part of the club's identity. His relentless energy, attacking instincts from the back line, and knack for scoring crucial goals have endeared him to supporters across generations.
He has captained the side through triumphs and setbacks, always displaying a professionalism that has set a benchmark for younger teammates. Looking ahead, the remaining fixtures will test the squad's resolve.
A win against Motherwell could extend Rangers' lead, while any slip‑ups could see Hearts overtake them or Celtic close the gap. The pressure is palpable, but the belief expressed by Röhl suggests that the team is aware of the narrative they are writing. A title win would not only secure a trophy for the club but also provide James Tavernier with a storybook conclusion to his Rangers chapter – a moment that fans will remember for years to come. For those following the Scottish Premiership, live coverage is available on Sky Sports, and the league can also be streamed via NOW.
As the season draws to a close, all eyes will be on Ibrox to see whether the captain can indeed lift the league crown one final time, delivering the "beautiful moment" that Danny Röhl so passionately envisions.