Rangers defender James Tavernier made the ‘best decision’ by moving to Ibrox – according to his brother Marcus.
Few Rangers fans could have predicted James Tavernier’s longevity for the club when he arrived way back in 2015.
Mark Warburton raided Wigan Athletic for Tavernier in his first transfer window as Rangers boss, striking a double deal involving striker Martyn Waghorn.
The other names from Rangers’ 2015 business have moved on but Tavernier remains at Ibrox having racked up more than 400 appearances for the club.
Tavernier may still divide opinion with some supporters but 107 goals and 119 assists in that time is astonishing for a right back, and both for longevity and attacking numbers, Tavernier will go down as one of the top Rangers bargains in recent memory.
James Tavernier’s brother praises Rangers move
Rangers paid just £200,000 to sign Tavernier more than eight years ago – and his brother has now hailed the move.
Marcus Tavernier emerged with Middlesbrough before securing a big £15million move to Bournemouth last year.
Now a Premier League talent, Tavernier has praised his older brother’s decision to join Rangers, believing that it’s simply the best move of his career.
Tavernier junior added that life in Glasgow is ‘just different’ and highlighted how passionate the fanbases are having seen his brother shine at Ibrox.
“The fans up there worship their players like they are gods – it is just different,” said Tavernier, who was speaking to Sky Sports. “That is the best decision he has made in his career, moving up there and being a part of that,” he added.
Tavernier should still have plenty left in the tank
Rangers ace Tavernier turns 32 later this month and it’s obvious that he won’t go on forever.
Rangers may need to think about succession planning down the line as Dujon Sterling doesn’t really possess the attacking qualities of Tavernier.
Yet Rangers supporters should be looking for Tavernier to make a big impact for a while yet though, especially having seen Steven Davis play on towards his 40’s.
Tavernier has been incredibly fit throughout his time at Rangers and appears to look after himself impeccably.
There should be plenty more goals and assists from Tavernier in the coming years, only cementing himself as a Rangers favourite.
Tavernier has been forced to defend his own form this season, but we think there is plenty left in the tank for the right back and new boss Philippe Clement will have a big role for him moving forward.
