- Alan Hutton gave his honest assessment on the James Tavernier situation
- Tavernier couldn’t give an answer on his Gers future in a recent interview
- Hutton thinks Rangers are ‘moving on’ from Tavernier in the summer
Former Rangers fullback Alan Hutton reveals his thoughts on James Tavernier’s future at the club.
Hutton, who played for Rangers before establishing himself as a Premier League star, believes the captain is ‘moving on’ at the end of the season.
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Tavernier was quizzed on what lies ahead for the future.
He revealed, “I don’t know, time will tell with that one. Nothing has been tabled yet.”
“I’m a man who always focuses on the short-term. Especially this week, I’m focusing on my family and focusing on my football.”
“Personal reasons will stay personal, but in football, no one’s guaranteed to play and start games.”
Hutton gave his personal assessment of Tavernier’s situation, talking about his past experiences and what the club should do.
Hutton’s assessment of Tavernier’s situation
The former Premier League defender shared his thoughts on the latest Scottish Football Social Show on YouTube.
“It happens to us all when we get to that stage in our careers when we are not relied on as much, but I think there is room for experience.”
“If it were me in that situation, I’d want some dialogue between myself and the club to try and figure out where my future does lie.”
“Of course, he might have three years left, so he will want to play as much as he can.”
“He’s probably one of the highest earners, he’s the club captain, and looking forward, he isn’t going to be the long-term solution.”
“If they are looking at bringing in a first-choice right-back, it suggests that James Tavernier will be moving on.”
Read Rangers analysis
Hutton is correct, for every footballer comes a time when they shift from starter to more of a role player.
Yes, Tavernier still has valuable qualities to bring to the club, creating big chances and still scoring goals.
However, his defensive stats show his frailties, with Rangers conceding 20 of their 31 goals while he’s been on the pitch.
The stats and the eye-test show Tavernier can’t get up and down the pitch like he used to.
Long gone are the days he could carry the team on his back, especially when Rangers reached the Europa League final.
The club is looking at first-choice replacements, so it’s important he does what is best for his career.
There is no question he will have suitors in England, where he will continue to play frequently until he retires.
The Gers want long-term players who can develop in each position, and Tavernier is past his emphatic best.
There is always room for this type of experience, but no one can imagine he will be happy to sit on the bench at Ibrox.
