Keith Jackson: Clement may have made statement about Rangers star, he needs to be axed

Keith Jackson has urged Philippe Clement to drop James Tavernier as he continues to look “miles off it” for Rangers.

While the 32-year-old was expected to end his 10-year stay at Ibrox during the summer transfer window, being linked with a move away, the right-back has continued to be a regular figure under the Belgian.

Tavernier has started all of the Gers’ matches in all competitions so far this season, though many have called for the captain to take a seat on the bench, with Dujon Sterling ready to replace him.

Asked if Clement made a statement about Tavernier against Lyon, Jackson said via the Daily Record [7 October, page 36]: “Perhaps. Tavernier was in all kinds of trouble against Malick Fofana so it was a change the manager had to make.

“But it’s not the first time the skipper has looked miles off it this season. Dujon Sterling should be given his chance at right-back.”

Dujon Sterling to replace James Tavernier at Rangers?

There is no doubt Tavernier has been a long-standing servant for the club, ever since he arrived from Wigan in the summer of 2015, going on to play nearly 500 matches.

The right-back’s goals from penalties and free-kicks have been an incredible addition to the Gers’ performances, but his continued decline in the defensive third is now troubling the team.

While his much higher positioning against the Saints on Sunday 6 October saw him play a much more comfortable game, it is certainly not a sustainable tactic against a better opposition.

Sterling, who looks to have overcome his injury issues at Ibrox, has more than earned his new contract extension and now deserves to cement his spot in the starting XI.

However, he has only started twice in the Scottish Premiership this season, often being utilised out of position to help bring home a victory in the closing stages of matches, which is just not fair.

In other Rangers news, one star was spotted limping off the Ibrox pitch after claiming a win v St Johnstone.

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