Where Tav Fits Among Rangers Greats

There’s a big debate about James Tavernier’s place among our greats. My view: he’s been a brilliant servant, maybe not untouchable yet, but he’s given us unforgettable nights.

Context matters more than people admit

To be fair, you can't judge Tav in a vacuum. He arrived for a modest fee and stayed through the worst of our upheaval. The club's instability — managerial changes, patchy recruitment and shifting squads — has to be part of the picture when we talk about his defensive shortcomings. He hasn't always had a settled back four in front of him.

Big moments and proper contributions

Don't downplay what he's done. Captaining Rangers to 55 and stopping Celtic's 10 in a row was enormous for the club and the supporters. Add his role as top scorer in the run to the 2022 Europa League final and becoming the highest scoring full back in British football history, and you have milestones that matter. Those big European nights, the big goals — they stick in the memory for a reason.

How to judge greatness

I'll admit I've defended him and I've criticised him. He's had defensive weaknesses, sure. But imagine if he'd had the kind of defensive partners from other eras — Richard Gough, Terry Butcher, Boumsong or Amoruso — and was still producing similar numbers. The conversation would be different, right? For me right now he sits as a great player and a loyal servant. If he helps deliver title 56, that tilts him into legend status personally. If not, we still owe him credit for the memories and the service.

In short: recognise what he's achieved, factor in the context, and keep your fingers crossed there's one more big moment to come.

Written by Thestigno1: 17 June 2026