Danny Röhl has expressed a heartfelt wish that James Tavernier, the long‑standing captain of Rangers, should conclude his eleven‑year spell at the club by lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy – a moment he describes as "beautiful" and fitting for a player of Tavernier's stature. The 34‑year‑old right‑back confirmed on Wednesday that he will depart Ibrox at the end of the season, ending a decade‑plus association that began when he was signed from Wigan Athletic.
During his tenure, Tavernier has become one of the most prolific defenders in Scottish football, amassing 144 goals in 562 appearances across all competitions. His contributions helped Rangers secure the league title in 2021, reach the Europa League final in 2022, and capture both the Scottish Cup and the Scottish League Cup. With five matches remaining after the league split, Rangers sit just one point behind leaders Heart of Midlothian and two points ahead of Celtic. The next fixture is a home game against fourth‑placed Motherwell on Sunday, a match that could prove pivotal in the title chase.
When Röhl was asked about Tavernier during the pre‑match press conference, he emphasized the significance of the captain's impending departure. "It's a huge piece of news for you, for us, for the club, for the fans – for everyone involved," the German manager said.
"Since I arrived, James has been an exemplary captain, leading the squad both on the pitch and off it. He is a true legend at Rangers and has built an extraordinary career here." Röhl continued, noting that Tavernier has witnessed both the highs and the lows of the club's recent history.
"He has seen all the good moments and also some of the tougher times. I hope that, by the end of the season, he can experience one more beautiful moment – winning the league. For a player of his calibre, a grand farewell should be a title win." The captain's own comments earlier in the week had taken many by surprise.
Just two days before Röhl's remarks, Tavernier had told the media that he was comfortable waiting until the summer to decide his future, suggesting there was no immediate urgency. Röhl was asked whether he would have preferred Tavernier to stay for another year if the decision were entirely his. The coach replied, "That's not the issue today.
He has made his final decision. We were very clear about our process – if the timing was right, we would discuss it with him.
He informed me before the news went public, which I thought was very fair." He added that the focus now is on the remaining 21 days of the campaign. "He spoke to the squad, and the most important thing at this stage is that we have five games left. Concentrate on those matches, and then you will have an incredible farewell, the one he deserves.
That's all that matters to me, to us, to the group – focus on what happens now." Röhl also provided an update on the injury list, confirming that left‑back Tuur Rommens and striker Ryan Naderi will miss another round of action but could be available for the final four fixtures if they recover in time. Their potential returns could give the team additional options as they push for the title in the closing stages. The broader context of Rangers' season adds weight to Röhl's comments. After a dominant 2021 league win, the club fell short in the 2022 Europa League final, losing to Eintracht Frankfurt in a dramatic penalty shoot‑out.
Since then, the team has been navigating a competitive domestic landscape, with Hearts emerging as surprise challengers and Celtic seeking to reclaim their historic dominance. In this environment, a final league triumph would not only provide a fitting send‑off for Tavernier but also cement his legacy as one of the most successful captains in the club's modern era. Fans have taken to social media to voice their support for the captain's wish for a title farewell.
Many recall Tavernier's iconic moments – such as his decisive goal in the 2021 title‑clinching match against St Johnstone, his spectacular free‑kick against Celtic in 2020, and his leadership during the Europa League run. These memories reinforce the narrative that his departure should be marked by a crowning achievement. From a tactical standpoint, Tavernier's influence extends beyond his goal‑scoring record.
As a right‑back, he has provided width, delivered accurate crosses, and contributed defensively with disciplined positioning. His experience and composure have been vital in guiding younger players like Rommens and Naderi, who look up to him as a mentor. Röhl's emphasis on maintaining focus for the final five games reflects a desire to protect the captain's legacy while also ensuring the squad remains competitive.
Looking ahead, the upcoming match against Motherwell will be a test of Rangers' resolve. Motherwell, currently sitting in fourth place, will be eager to capitalize on any slip‑ups, while Rangers will aim to secure three points to keep the pressure on Hearts. A victory would bring the club level on points with the leaders, intensifying the title race as the season draws to a close.
In summary, Danny Röhl's comments underline a poignant narrative: James Tavernier, a player who has given a decade of service, deserves a farewell that matches his contributions. Whether the final league trophy is secured or not, the respect and admiration expressed by the manager, teammates, and supporters alike ensure that Tavernier's legacy at Rangers will endure long after his final whistle.