'Woah' - Pundit reacts as Michael Stewart makes new Tavernier claim ahead of Rangers v Lyon

Michael Stewart has accused Darrell Currie and Alan Hutton of trying to get James Tavernier “bulleted” at Rangers.

The Light Blues captain has proven to be a divisive figure at Ibrox so far this season, having been linked with a transfer away from Glasgow throughout the summer transfer window [Graeme Bailey, 6 September].

While Stewart has been quick to slam the defender, he has jumped to his defence and suggested Premier Sports presenter Currie and pundit Hutton are calling for him to be dropped for the clash with Lyon.

Speaking on The Scottish Football Social Club (30 September) Currie said: “I wanted to ask you as well what is the best back four moving forwards against the best opposition?

“Lyon next, as you know, is a tough game in the Europa League but [Neraysho] Kasanwirjo looked quite steady against Malmo, Jefte obviously back in and could play.”

Stewart jumped in saying: “You two are desperate to get the captain bulleted.”

Hutton responded: “Woah Michael, do not. Easy. He [Kasanwirjo] did play left back.”

Currie replied: “Kasanwirjo played left back, I’m not necessarily suggesting that, I’m only asking.

“There were defensive question marks not that long ago and Michael was asking some of those defensive questions.”

What has happened to James Tavernier at Rangers and Ibrox?

As Currie suggests, there have been question marks around Tavernier at Rangers for a while now, particularly the Englishman’s work off of the ball in the defensive third of the pitch.

Against better opposition, particularly in Old Firm matches, the Gers skipper has been left wanting without the ball at his feet as he has struggled to deal with the opposition’s winger.

While that hasn’t been the case since this season’s defeat to Celtic at Parkhead, some supporters will naturally be a little concerned by the prospect of Lyon’s attacking talent getting the better of the 32-year-old defender.

Clement has a big decision to make. If he sticks with Tavernier, it could cost him. If he changes his system or turns to Kasanwirjo or Dujon Sterling, there will be so much talk about what that means for the captain’s future.

Ultimately, Clement is the Gers boss because he is able to make these sorts of major decisions.

In other Rangers news, Clement has been backed to make a new Bailey Rice call in Glasgow after recent developments

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