How critics have been silenced by James Tavernier's turnaround, taking him to brink of testimonial at Rangers

James Tavernier has proven his doubters wrong this season – 17 goals, Rangers’ 55th league title, and a new contract to put him on the brink of a testimonial.

James Tavernier celebrates as Rangers are crowned Champions on March 07, 2021, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

And his manager Steven Gerrard couldn’t be happier for his club captain, who extended his stay at Ibrox until 2024 and potentially nine seasons in the SPFL.

It is a long way from the detractors who criticised the defender over his performances and leadership and a programme notes furore last season where he hinted that Rangers struggled under pressure. All that has turned on its head and the captain is making tentative steps back to fitness after two months on the sidelines in a positive tale of resilience that brings a smile to the face of his manager.

“It's a great story. I love nothing better than seeing people rewarded for the hard work and dedication and what they put into it,” said Steven Gerrard. "He deserves the new contract, he deserves a pay rise and hopefully he can help us in the final part of the season.”

James Tavernier (L) and Steven Gerrard during a Scottish Premiership match between Hibernian and Rangers at Easter Road, on January 27, 2021, in Edinburgh, Scotland (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Tavernier has been deputised by teenage right-back Nathan Patterson – and to some aplomb – which might become the threat to Tavernier’s testimonial, if he sees out the duration of his deal, but Gerrard says the club can only benefit from the captain’s influence on the 19-year-old’s development.

“He wants to continue improving and wants to be a good support network for Nathan who is going to come through and take the baton eventually. From a right back point of view the club is in a fantastic place.”

Gerrard has formed a close bond with Tavernier – one of just three players to remain at Ibrox from the squad he inherited in 2018 – and has seen the evidence off the field contributing to his success on it.

"When you play for a top club you have to be prepared to soak a bit of criticism up – especially with social media and the amount of people that cover the games.

“I know from experience that it is not always pats on the back but you can never question James’ mentality or his character. He has soaked up more than most but has reacted, responded and put the hard work in. I see it on a daily basis."

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