Tavernier: Time to rethink the captaincy

Tavernier has given us big moments, but there’s a case for keeping him only as backup on reduced terms and handing the armband to someone else for the good of the team.

To be blunt: James Tavernier has served the club and given us memorable moments, but that doesn’t automatically mean he should remain our first-choice captain or starter. You can see why people love him — important goals, big nights — yet there’s also a growing case for change at right-back and with the armband.

A good servant, not necessarily captain material

He’s been a familiar face for years and he’s delivered plenty of memorable moments. But some of the criticism in the dressing room and among supporters isn’t just noise. A captain needs to influence games consistently, lead on the pitch and stand up when the heat’s on. The argument here is that, more often than not, he’s gone quiet in games and at times hasn’t handled outside pressure in the way people expect of a skipper.

Why keeping him as backup makes sense

There’s value in experience. If the club keeps him as experienced cover he still offers set-piece threat and leadership to younger players, without blocking a new long-term starter. That has to come with a realistic wage structure though. Football is a results business and we can’t reward past service with unsustainable terms. A reduced role and reduced wages, with the dignity of a testimonial, feels like a fair compromise.

Let the armband do the talking

Captaincy should reflect who moves the team forward on and off the pitch. If someone else is better placed to lead by example, give them the job. That’s not disrespect to what Tavernier has done — far from it. Saying thanks for the invincible season and that Europa run doesn’t clash with asking for a fresh voice in the dressing room.

At the end of the day I’m grateful for the memories. But football moves on, and sometimes decisions that look harsh on the face of it are the right ones for the club. To be fair, handling that correctly — with respect — is the test of our board and coaching team now.

Basic tactical note: a captain who can influence the defensive shape and press consistently is crucial. If Tavernier moves to a rotational role, the manager should ensure the new starter offers better balance defensively while still contributing going forward.

Written by Aye Ready: 13 June 2026