Rangers assistant manager Gary McAllister reveals his choice for player of the year

James Tavernier celebrates his goal against Hamilton Academical. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)

Rangers players are expected to dominate the contenders for this season’s awards and Gary McAllister finds it hard to select just one stand-out from the club’s dominant championship-winning campaign.

From Allan McGregor’s agile saves to Alfredo Morelos’ goals and the dependability of Connor Goldson, Steven Davis and James Tavernier, there have been plenty of plus points to the season that has restored the SPFL Premiership trophy.

But if Steven Gerrard’s assistant manager had to choose – his choice would be the captain, James Tavernier.

Mulling over the potential contenders, McAllister admitted: “It’s a good question! The two lads who have signed new contracts have been outstanding – Allan McGregor and Steven Davis.

"Tav and Connor, Ryan Kent too. Alfredo [Morelos] probably hasn’t had the season he has in the past, but in the last six to eight weeks of league games he really came to the fore.

"But if you were pushing me, and putting it on me, I’m not going to sit on the fence. I’d probably go for Tav – he’s played a real captain’s part.”

The right-back has led by example and been as influential an attacking force as he has been a defender this term, pitching in with 15 goals and 10 assists before injury in the Europa League forced him to the sidelines.

Even so, the captain has led the scoring charts for much of the season and despite his absence could yet secure his club crown with Alfredo Morelos just one goal behind on 14 in all competitions.

Both have scored 11 league goals, one less than Hibs’ Kevin Nisbet and five behind Premiership leader Odsonne Edouard, of Celtic.

Get a year of unlimited access to all The Scotsman's sport coverage without the need for a full subscription. Expert analysis of the biggest games, exclusive interviews, live blogs, transfer news and 70 per cent fewer ads on Scotsman.com - all for less than £1 a week. Subscribe to us today