- James Tavernier is expected to leave Rangers as contract nears expiry this summer.
- Rangers consider right-back replacements including Nathan Patterson.
- Club preparing defensive rebuild as long-term succession plan for captain begins.
As the Rangers career of James Tavernier draws ever closer to its now seemingly inevitable conclusion in May, the club now must cast their eye towards the future.
After ten seasons at Ibrox, the captain’s contract nears expiry, and with his age and declining performances, it is almost certain to not be renewed.
With five games remaining in the league campaign, a title win could define his legacy in the eyes of the support.
There have been calls for Tavernier to remain beyond the summer, including from his former Gers boss Mark Warburton.
“He’s just a genuine top-class character. I can’t be high enough of him,” he explained to the Rangers Review.
“I’ve done for every year since I’ve known [James Tavernier], but he’s been outstanding for Rangers.
“Anyone who criticises him should look themselves in the mirror and say, look at what he’s done for Rangers.
“When Tav’s not there, you’ll be the first ones to be saying if only we had Tavernier back.”
But internally, eyes will now be turning to potential replacements for the right-back.
Max Lowe
A trusted lieutenant of Ibrox head coach Danny Rohl during his time with Sheffield Wednesday, the 28-year-old is certain to depart Hillsborough after their relegation to League One.
He has experience within Scottish football, spending a season with Aberdeen eight years ago as the Dons finished fourth and came runners up in the League Cup.
Lowe spent two seasons as starting right back for the German boss at the Owls, with links suggesting this move since his appointment at Ibrox.
Nathan Patterson
A former Rangers player and the highest-profile graduate of the Ibrox system in recent times.
Patterson was originally seen as Tavernier’s long-term successor after bursting onto the picture under Steven Gerrard.
He made 27 appearances over two years at Ibrox, scoring twice, before being sold to Everton for a reported £11m in January 2022.
His time in England has been interrupted by consistent injuries and managerial changes on Merseyside.
He has only a year remaining on his Toffees deal.
It could be the chance for him to finally fulfil his destiny and step into Tavernier’s shoes at Ibrox.
Rangers could bring the now 24-year-old back to Scotland for a reduced fee of what they received and reignite the Scotland stars faltering career.
Ryan Alebiosu
Another potential replacement for the skipper from England, the 24-year-old Blackburn full back is set to depart Ewood Park this summer.
He has experience of Scottish football from previous loan spells north of the border.
He also fits the age and physicality profile preferred by Rohl.
An attack-minded, athletic modern defender, Alebiosu is known for his speed, dribbling ability, and high-quality crossing.
These traits would make him a like-for-like replacement for the departing veteran captain.
DC Thomson journalist Michael McEwan has tipped the Nigerian international to replace Tavernier.
On his social media profile, he said: “Assuming James Tavernier moves on at the end of the season, Rangers could do worse than Ryan Alebiosu.
“Former Killie and St Mirren loanee who is having a great season in a poor Blackburn team.
“Two years left on his deal after this season.
“But if Blackburn get relegated, could be available for a cut-price fee.
“Fabulous athlete and international teammate of Manny Fernandez.”
Other options
Other options include former Ibrox graduate Ross McCrorie, who has adapted to a full back role with Bristol City.
Former Aberdeen ‘wonderkid’ Calvin Ramsay will also become available as he enters the final year of his Liverpool contract.
He has failed to make the breakthrough at Anfield and the chance to return to Scotland and thrive at Ibrox could be a compelling career move for the 22-year-old.
Will James Tavernier depart?
Tavernier distanced himself from discussions over his future during a recent BBC interview.
He confirmed he had “not as yet” entered into any discussions over his future.
He revealed he simply does not think that far ahead.
“I’m a man who always focusses on short-term, day by day, especially this week,” he explained.
“Focus on the family, focus on my football this week, my wife’s asking me about the summer holidays and what the kids need on the holidays.
“I’m saying talk to me on a later date because that’s just too far ahead for me.
“Time will tell with this one but I’m obviously excited for what the future brings.”
Time will tell, but the signs are looking increasingly likely that Tavernier’s Rangers odyssey is drawing to an end.
The last question will be whether he can go out as a champion.
