'End to his Rangers career...' - Chris Jack issues admission on James Tavernier amid struggles

Chris Jack believes that Philippe Clement will need to address the situation surrounding Rangers captain James Tavernier in a deeper manner.

The Rangers Review journalist admits that while it may be wrong to write off the 33-year-old, he must be given a chance to contribute rather than abruptly ending his Ibrox career.

Tavernier was taken off for Dujon Sterling against Motherwell and watched from the sidelines as Gers secured a comeback win in the Scottish League Cup semi-final.

Jack wrote on 6 November: “At some point, Clement will need to address the Tavernier question in a fuller, deeper manner.

“Tavernier cannot be asked to play as regularly as he has in previous seasons over the coming months. He looks like a player and a person that needs a break and Clement must do the best thing for Tavernier and for Rangers and take him out of the firing line.

“If Tavernier’s decline must, like every player at some stage of their career, be managed at present then it should be done in a manner that continues to give him a chance to contribute rather than hurtling towards an abrupt end to his Rangers career.

“Tavernier has answered his critics before and he can do it again so it would be wrong to completely write him off. But he needs help and he needs Clement to make a big call. Dropping the captain is a decision that always resonates more than any other player but no individual is more important than the collective and no place can be given on sentiment rather than form.

“Clement’s next words on Tavernier will be indicative and interesting. His next actions will arguably speak louder. He cannot dodge the Tavernier question any longer.”

James Tavernier is not justifying his inclusion in the Rangers eleven

Clement faces a delicate situation with Tavernier, whose recent performances have not justified his automatic selection.

While the Englishman’s historical contributions to the team are undeniable, football is a results-driven sport where current form often trumps past laurels.

Despite his leadership role, Tavernier’s recent outings, including being substituted during crucial matches, suggest a dip in his usual standards.

Clement must prioritise the team’s success, which might mean benching the right-back if his form does not improve.

This decision isn’t just about individual performance but also about sending a message about the importance of meritocracy within the squad.

Clement’s task is to balance respect for Tavernier’s legacy with the tactical needs of Rangers, ensuring that every player, regardless of their status, earns their spot on the pitch and this season, the captain has not done that.

In other Rangers news, an Ibrox-linked manager who’s admired by Pep Guardiola is in the frame for the job.

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