Chris Jack has shared that he would be surprised if James Tavernier was allowed to leave Rangers this summer unless a “huge” offer arrived amid links to Saudi Arabian clubs.
The Rangers Review journalist explained that Tavernier’s presence and influence both on the pitch and in the changing room are too valuable for the club to consider moving him on.
However, he also clarified that they will need to “seriously consider” succession planning as the 32-year-old will not stick around at Ibrox forever – something which has been suggested previously.
This came after the captain clarified his stance on any possible exit, insisting he remains focused on the Ibrox club. [Daily Record, 29 April]
Speaking on The Rangers Review [30 April], Jack explained: “I would be surprised if James moved on, and I’d also be disappointed. For me, he’s far too influential and far too big a part of the squad to consider moving him on.
“At some stage, Rangers will have to seriously consider succession planning because James Tavernier won’t go on forever, but right now, the manager said he’ll be a key part of the squad.
“Unless the money on offer is huge from a Rangers perspective, I think that would be the only way, but for footballing reasons, I think Tavernier remains a Rangers player.”
Chris Jack shares James Tavernier transfer update at Rangers
A dip in form of late has seen the captain heavily criticised by many, with Gabby Agbonlahor stunned as he labelled Tavernier “terrible” based on his display in the 3-3 Old Firm draw with Celtic at Ibrox, but he remains a vital player under Clement.
While he may be the scapegoat at times, Rangers’ struggle in the league in recent weeks has seen him struggle to make an impact aside from his usual goalscoring antics as the performances have been flat and tired.
However, despite the heavy criticism, his value to this team has always been clear as a leader and a voice on and off the pitch, while his performances, despite recent form, usually set the standard for his teammates.
Losing Tavernier to a Saudi Arabian club, unless the deal came with ridiculous money to benefit the club, would come as a blow to the Ibrox side, and as Jack says, it would come as a surprise if he did move on this summer.
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