Connor Goldson Criticises Rangers Over James Tavernier Farewell
Connor Goldson has criticised Rangers over their handling of James Tavernier’s exit from Ibrox, branding the send-off “mental” after 11 years of service.
Speaking on Open Goal, the defender said he could not think of another club that would treat a departing captain that way.
The James Tavernier story became one of the summer’s biggest talking points among supporters, given how it all unfolded at the end of last season.
“Mental. I don’t know another football club that could do that after 11 years,” Goldson said, reflecting on how Tavernier’s Ibrox career came to a close.
He went further when discussing the presentation Tavernier received on his final appearance.
“He’s in the Hall of Fame there. I can say let him play, don’t let him play [in the last game of the season].
“But I mean, do something better than he just walks onto the pitch, gets a little trophy and walks off. His family, his kids… do you know what I mean?” Goldson said.
Open Goal Interview Details and Former Captain’s Ibrox Record
Goldson’s comments came during an interview on Open Goal, where he was asked directly about Tavernier’s departure.
“I haven’t spoken to him or anyone there to actually ask what happened. But I just think for what he’s given the football club, just to leave on that…” Goldson said.
Tavernier’s final home appearance was due to come against Hibs.
According to former manager Danny Röhl, the right back initially refused to be a substitute for the game, then left the stadium before eventually returning to briefly receive a presentation from Rangers legend John Greig.
In recent weeks, Tavernier signed for Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel, after the conclusion to a Rangers career that produced 144 goals in 562 appearances across all competitions.
Combined Ibrox Legacy and Squad Impact Following Summer Exits
Between them, Goldson and Tavernier gave Rangers a combined 17 years of service, spanning some of the club’s most eventful seasons on and off the pitch. The Connor Goldson James Tavernier partnership at the back marked out much of that period.
Goldson’s own departure came in 2024, when he left for Aris Limassol under then manager Philippe Clement.
He recalled being given a straightforward choice at the time. “Whatever you decide, it’ll be your decision. But if you want anything, you can leave for free,” Clement told him, according to Goldson. He later moved on again and now plays for Apollon Limassol.
You can read more in our piece on Goldson’s departure under Philippe Clement.
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