Should James Tavernier’s time at Rangers be considered a success?

Now in the midst of his 10th season as a Rangers player, James Tavernier has seen it all during his decade at Ibrox. 

The attacking right-back joined the Gers from Wigan Athletic in 2015, when they were still in the Scottish Championship and attempting to build their way back to the top after being demoted to the fourth tier of the nation in 2012 due to entering administration. 

He’s been more than a loyal servant and has brought his fair share of silverware back to Ibrox, yet opinions amongst fans and pundits remain mixed on his status as a ‘club legend’. 

Rangers supporters are growing tired of the current regime, believing the squad needs a refresh as regular Scottish football betting favourites Celtic close in on a fourth-straight title despite it only being December. 

Tavernier could be one of the players to be moved on at the end of the season, especially with Steven Gerrard reportedly interested in rekindling his relationship with the Rangers captain at Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. 

If that were to be the case, let’s take a deep dive into ‘Tav’s’ time at the club and assess whether he should be considered a legend by the fans—even though he has already been inducted into the Ranger’s Hall of Fame by the club. 

Performance and contributions

Perhaps the one aspect about which there can be no arguments is James Tavernier’s incredible performance and contributions over the last decade. 

The 33-year-old has undoubtedly been one of Rangers most influential and integral players in recent memory—making them regular favourites in the football odds. 

While his defensive ability is often questioned, his 128 goals and 134 assists in 484 appearances across all competitions are remarkable.  

What’s more, his impressive goal tally makes him the highest-scoring British defender of all time—overtaking the likes of Graham Alexander and Steve Bruce. 

Mentality and leadership

Some have questioned Tavernier’s mentality over the last decade. As captain of a club like Rangers, the right-back is under immense pressure to not only perform but also rally his troops and turn things around when the going gets tough on and off the pitch. 

Indeed, there are moments during his time at the club when he has shown an elite mentality—like Rangers’ sensational run to the Europa League final a couple of years ago. However, there are some question marks surrounding his mentality and leadership, especially when it comes to firing up his teammate for Old Firms and so on. 

Trophy count

Tavernier is also often criticised by fans and pundits for his medal count—or lack thereof—over the last decade at Ibrox. 

Yes, he joined the club when they were still in the Championship and in the middle of a major rebuild, but one Scottish Premiership title, one Scottish Cup, and one Scottish League Cup is still below the bar of expectation set at a successful club like Rangers in a 10-year stint at the club. 

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While there’s no doubt that Tavernier has been one of the most influential and integral players for Rangers in the modern era, with his contributions, loyalty, and consistency still making him a club legend, if success is strictly based on his trophy collection, opinions may vary.